Dicta
/ˈdɪktə/
Definitions
- (n. pl.) Remarks or observations made by a judge that are incidental to the decision and not legally binding as precedent.
The judge’s dicta in the opinion do not carry the force of law in future cases.
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Commentary
Dicta should be distinguished from the holding; while dicta can be persuasive, they are not binding and should be used cautiously in legal arguments.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.