stare decisis Hear it!

stare decisis Definition

stare de·ci·sis (ster′ē di sī′sis)

noun

a policy of law that requires courts to abide by laws and precedents previously laid down as applicable to a similar set of facts

Etymology: L, to stand by things decided

stare decisis Law Definition

n

Latin

To stand by what was decided. The doctrine of common law under which courts follow the earlier judicial decisions made on the same points of litigation; following precedent. Stare decisis is not inviolable, but precedent will be overturned only for good cause. The doctrine, however, is essentially useless in constitutional law. See also precedent and res judicata.

Browse dictionary entries near stare decisis

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  5. ‹ starch
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  7. ‹ Stara Zagora
  8. ‹ Star Wars
  9. ‹ star topology
  10. ‹ star thistle
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