What binds future decision in the common -law?

Future decisions in the common law are bound by precedent. This means that judges are required to follow the decisions of higher courts in similar cases. This principle, known as stare decisis, ensures consistency and predictability in the legal system. Judges must consider previous rulings and apply them to current cases, unless there is a compelling reason to depart from precedent. This helps to maintain the integrity of the legal system and ensures that similar cases are treated similarly.