Ratio Decidendi
/ˈreɪʃɪ.oʊ dɪˈsɪdɛn.dɪ/
Definitions
- (n.) The legal principle or reason underlying a judicial decision, which forms binding precedent.
The lawyer focused on the ratio decidendi to understand the court's ruling.
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Commentary
The ratio decidendi is distinct from obiter dictum; identifying the exact ratio is critical for applying precedents correctly.
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.