Under the English legal system, how were legal disputes typically resolved?

The correct response indicates that legal disputes in the English legal system were resolved on a case-by-case basis before a judge. This approach emphasizes the role of judges in making determinations based on the facts and circumstances of each specific case, applying established laws and legal precedents.

The judicial system in England relies heavily on the doctrine of precedent, where the decisions of higher courts bind lower courts in future similar cases. This method ensures consistency and predictability in the application of the law. Judges interpret legal principles and apply them to the intricate details of each dispute, providing a tailored resolution based on the unique elements of the case.

This method of resolution contrasts with the other options. For instance, while juries have a role in the legal process, particularly in criminal cases and some civil cases, the fundamental operation of resolving disputes primarily rests with judges in many circumstances. Mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method that exists outside of formal court processes, whereas legislative recommendations do not directly resolve legal disputes but rather guide future law-making. Thus, the selected answer accurately reflects the foundational process of adjudicating disputes within the English legal framework.