Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT considered a source of law in the United States?

1. Constitutional law

2. Statutory law

3. Cultural practices

4. Case law

The correct answer is: Cultural practices

Cultural practices are not recognized as a formal source of law in the United States. The legal system is established on specific, codified sources that provide clear guidelines for behavior and legal standards. The primary sources of law include constitutional law, which outlines the framework of government and fundamental rights; statutory law, which consists of laws enacted by legislative bodies; and case law, which arises from judicial decisions and interpretations of statutes and constitutional provisions. While cultural practices may influence societal norms and behaviors, they do not carry the legal weight or authority associated with the recognized sources of law. Legal systems require defined statutes and judicial precedents to ensure uniformity and predictability in legal proceedings. Thus, while cultural practices can shape public opinion and societal values, they do not function as a formal source of law within the U.S. legal framework.