In legal discussions, the term "substantive law" primarily refers to what?

Substantive law encompasses the legal standards that define the rights and obligations of individuals and entities within the legal system. It comprises laws that dictate what behaviors are permissible, what actions are considered criminal, and what rights are granted under the law, such as contract law, tort law, and property law. This distinguishes it from procedural law, which relates to the methods, rules, and processes through which substantive laws are enforced. Understanding substantive law is essential for comprehending how legal rights can be asserted or defended in various situations, as it establishes the foundational principles that govern interactions within society.

The other options focus on aspects that pertain more to how the law is enacted and applied rather than the specific rights and duties themselves. For instance, methods of prosecuting cases (the first choice) fall under procedural law, while statutes related to legal procedures (the third choice) also pertain to the enforcement and application of laws rather than defining the rights themselves. The last option concerning historical laws that are no longer applicable does not contribute to the current legal framework and does not define rights or obligations relevant to modern legal discussions.