Definitions of common law
(modifier) a partner in a marriage that is recognised in some jurisdictions but which is not the result of a civil or religious ceremony
Throughout his life he referred to her as his 'common law wife' and his 'only friend'.
the body of law formed through court decisions, as opposed to law formed through statutes or written legislation
The English common law has evolved over some 350 years, with judges basing their decisions on those made by predecessors.