Which of the following best defines 'statute'?

A statute is best defined as a law enacted by a legislative body. This definition is essential because statutes are formal written laws that are passed by governmental agencies or legislative bodies, such as parliaments or congresses. They provide legal authority and establish rules and regulations that govern conduct within a jurisdiction. Understanding the role of statutes is crucial since they form the basis of statutory law, which differs from common law that arises from judicial decisions and precedents.

The incorrect choices highlight different concepts: private organization rules may pertain to internal regulations within a group but do not have the force of law; informal guidelines lack formal legal status and are not mandated by any legislative authority; and judicial decisions are the outcomes of court rulings that interpret laws, rather than laws themselves. Thus, distinguishing statutes from these other types of regulations and decisions is fundamental to understanding legal frameworks.