obiter dictum

Obiter dictum, often called "dicta," refers to comments or opinions made by a judge in a court ruling that are not essential to deciding the specific case. These remarks are like side notes—they may offer legal insight or context but do not carry the force of law. While they can influence future cases, they are not binding precedents. Essentially, obiter dictum provides additional commentary from the judge that helps understand the case but isn't legally decisive.