Common Law vs. Civil Code
The Legal System in Louisiana
Define Common Law, Civil Code, and Describe their Origin
Common law, also known as case law, is law developed by judges through decisions of courts. Civil law is set on statutes picked up through the legislative process and regulations issued by the executive branch on base of the parliamentary statutes.
How does Louisiana's system of "civil law" differ from the "common law" traditions practiced by all the other states?
Louisiana law is primarily based on French and Spanish codes and Roman law, opposed to English common law.
Why did Louisiana adopt France's law structure?
Louisiana adopted the French law structure, but they took it then modified it. Made it more liberal in the direction of the Spanish laws of the Indies. So after this took place the population rose dramatically, and that was the intent.