Comprehension

Legal systems can be broadly divided into two main types: common law and civil law. Most countries in the world use one of these systems, although many countries in the Middle East and North Africa have religious law. Some other countries usually in the developing world- have a system of customary law, which is based on patterns of behaviour in a particular social setting or community. There are also mixed systems in operation, but these are not widespread. Common law is defined as a legal system which is based on a tradition of previous judgments, or ’cases’. In this system judges base their judgements on ’like cases’ which are very similar to the one before them. This is why another term, case law, actually means the same as common law. In countries with civil law systems, judgements are made with reference to codes and statutes rather than previous cases. Civil law systems are more structured and rely on comprehensive legal codes that outline all matters that can be brought before a court. In contrast, common law evolves over time through judicial decisions, allowing for greater flexibility in interpretation. 

Question: 1

Common law is also known as _____.

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Common law is based on past judicial decisions—so it is also called “case law.”
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • Religious law
  • Case law
  • Customary law
  • Civil law
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The Correct Option is B

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Question: 2

Civil law systems rely on ________ to make judgments.

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Civil law = written rules (codes); Common law = past cases.
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • Previous cases
  • Legal codes
  • Customary practices
  • Religious texts
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The Correct Option is B

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Question: 3

A key advantage of common law is its _______.

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Common law adapts through court decisions—this gives it flexibility.
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • Strict structure
  • Flexibility
  • Religious foundation
  • Dependence on codes
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The Correct Option is B

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Question: 4

Religious law is mostly found in _____.

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Always look for location clues in passages—they directly answer such questions.
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • North America
  • Europe
  • Middle East
  • Australia
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The Correct Option is C

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Question: 5

The word “customary” in the passage means _____.

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“Customary” usually relates to traditions or long-established practices.
Updated On: Apr 23, 2026
  • Traditional
  • Legal
  • Uncommon
  • Official
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The Correct Option is A

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