Precedent Meaning Simple. A previous action or decision that can be used as a reason for allowing something else. The definition of precedent is a decision that is the basis or reason for future decisions.
Thus the rule in Fishbeck. The judgment on pension rights has established set a precedent. Definition of precedent Entry 2 of 2 1.
It is a principle that requires judges to follow the rulings and determinations of judges in higher courts where a case involves similar facts and issues.
A previous action or decision that can be used as a reason for allowing something else. The Anglo-American common-law tradition is built on the doctrine of Stare Decisis stand by decided matters which directs a court to look to past decisions for guidance on how to decide a case before it. Judicial precedent can be applied on cases and to be treated similiarly when the material facts of the cases are identical. From the Cambridge English Corpus Although willing to admit that examples can operate as pure precedents some people would argue that law is a special case.
