Which legal system is often associated with courtroom decisions from judges in prior cases?

The correct answer is associated with the common law legal system, which is characterized by the reliance on judicial decisions in prior cases to guide future rulings. In common law systems, judges play a critical role in interpreting the law and their decisions establish precedents that influence how similar cases are decided in the future. This principle of stare decisis, where courts are bound to follow the precedents established in previous judgments, helps ensure consistency and predictability within the legal field.

On the other hand, civil law systems primarily derive their legal principles from comprehensive statutes and codes rather than from judicial decisions. While religious law is based on specific religious texts and guidelines, and social law is not a widely recognized category in the same context, common law's unique reliance on past court rulings distinctly sets it apart as a system focused on precedent and judicial interpretation.