Which type of law is created by Congress, state legislatures, or local authorities in response to a perceived need?

Statutory law is defined as laws that are enacted by legislative bodies, such as Congress, state legislatures, or local authorities, to address specific needs or issues within society. When a legislature perceives a need for regulation or guidance in a particular area, it drafts and passes statutes to create new laws. These laws can cover a wide array of topics, including public safety, rights, and obligations, and they become part of the legal framework that governs society.

In contrast, administrative law involves regulations created by governmental agencies based on statutes that have been enacted. Civil law generally deals with disputes between private parties and encompasses areas such as contract law and tort law. Criminal law focuses on offenses against the state and public, regulating behavior that is deemed harmful to society. Statutory law is unique in that it is the direct result of legislative action responding to societal needs.