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Legal Determinism

Legal determinism is the belief that legal outcomes are heavily influenced or predestined by existing laws, legal principles, and prior judicial decisions, leaving little room for personal judgment or discretion. It suggests that once the law is established, it largely determines how cases will be decided, regardless of individual beliefs or circumstances. This concept emphasizes the idea that legal systems operate in a way that predictably guides decision-making, potentially minimizing subjective interpretation. In essence, legal determinism views laws as a primary force shaping judicial results, ensuring consistency but possibly limiting flexibility.