Which statement correctly defines a statute?

• A. A law passed by the Florida legislature.
• B. A municipal ordinance.
• C. A court decision interpreting a law.
• D. A treaty between states.

Answer: (A)

A statute is a written law enacted by a legislative body. In Florida, that means a law passed by the Florida Legislature and codified in the Florida Statutes. This distinguishes it from a municipal ordinance (local law created by cities or counties), a court decision interpreting a law (which is case law), or a treaty between states (an international agreement). So the statement that a statute is a law passed by the Florida Legislature correctly defines what a statute is.