precedent system

A precedent system is a legal principle where courts follow previous decisions, or "precedents," when ruling on similar cases. This creates consistency and predictability in the law, as future judges refer to earlier rulings to guide their judgment. If a higher court has decided a matter, lower courts are generally obliged to follow that decision. Precedent ensures that the law evolves logically over time, balancing stability with the ability to adapt to new circumstances. It is a cornerstone of common law legal systems, promoting fairness and uniformity in judicial outcomes.