Gavel Insight

Customary law, also known as common law, is a body of unwritten legal principles that are derived from the practices and traditions of a specific community or group. While it may not be codified in written statute law, customary law is recognized and respected within that community and often enforces an informal system of justice. In some cases, customary law may have legal standing within a broader legal system. This paper will explore the implications and applications of customary law in the state of Washington, the role it plays in shaping community life, and its significance in a modern legal system. History of Customary Law in Washington State Washington State’s legal system has a rich history that dates back to the earliest Native American cultures that inhabited the region. Each tribe had its own unique customs and precepts that governed social behavior, property rights, and conflict resolution. These customs were passed down orally from generation to generation and were ritual...