Preliminary Rulings

Preliminary rulings are decisions made by a higher court, such as the European Court of Justice, to clarify how the law should be interpreted in specific cases. When lower courts or authorities face legal questions they’re unsure about, they can ask for a preliminary ruling to ensure consistent application of the law across different cases and jurisdictions. This process helps prevent conflicts and promotes uniformity, allowing courts to make informed decisions based on authoritative legal interpretations. Essentially, preliminary rulings guide the proper understanding and application of the law before the final judgment is made.