IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test 2026 - Free IOSH Test Practice Questions and Study Guide

The main source of criminal law is statute law, which is created by a legislative body such as parliament. Statute law establishes specific crimes and penalties, reflecting the values and needs of society at a given time. Parliament enacts laws that provide a clear framework for what constitutes criminal behavior, ensuring that the legal system remains relevant and up-to-date.

While common law, derived from judicial decisions, plays a role in shaping the understanding and application of laws, statute law is the primary source, as it is formally legislated and universally applicable within the jurisdiction. International treaties and agreements may influence criminal law, particularly with regards to specific offenses, but they do not serve as the main source. Local bylaws and regulations can govern certain behaviors at a community level but are not comprehensive enough to be classified as the main source of criminal law on a broader scale.