What is NOT a characteristic of statutes?

Statutes are defined as written laws enacted by legislative bodies such as Congress or state legislatures. They typically govern a wide array of subjects and are intended to provide clear legal standards and frameworks within a society. The essential characteristic of statutes is that they originate through a formal legislative process, which involves drafting, reviewing, and voting.

The key distinction lies in the fact that executive orders, while legally binding, are not statutes. They are issued by the executive branch of government (like the President or a state governor) to manage operations within the executive branch itself. These orders can have significant legal effects but do not arise from the legislative process that defines statutes. Therefore, the claim that statutes may be created by executive orders does not align with the fundamental principles of legislative authority and the nature of statutory law.

This understanding underscores why the choice indicating that statutes are created by executive orders is the correct answer to identify as not a characteristic of statutes.