Precedents
/ˈprɛsɪdənts/
Definitions
- (n.) Judicial decisions or legal rulings that serve as authoritative rules or principles for deciding subsequent cases involving similar facts or issues.
The court relied on established precedents to reach its verdict.
Forms
- precedent (singular)
Related terms
See also
Commentary
Precedents form the backbone of common law systems, where past judicial decisions guide future rulings to ensure consistency and predictability in legal outcomes.
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.