How did English common law develop?

Answer 1

Common law in England developed over the years as people continued to sue each other.

Think of it this way:

In the year 1400, Alan sued Bob for stealing his cow. Bob was ordered to pay $100 to Alan in order to pay him back. This established the law that anybody who stole a cow had to pay the victim back. If, in the year 1500, Charlie stole a cow from Danny, then Charlie would have to pay Danny, because he has broken the law.

Common law can be changed, however. Because a cow is worth more than $100 today, if Edward stole a cow from Frank, he would have to pay Frank $500 instead of $100. This is how common law is changed.

Another way common law can change is this:

If the courts decided that instead of paying him money, the thief should have to give the cow back, the judges can change the punishment.

Answer 2

As the influence of royal courts grew they became more powerful.