What is stare decisis?

Stare decisis is a legal principle that requires courts to follow the precedent set by previous court decisions when deciding similar cases. This principle helps ensure consistency and predictability in the legal system. It is often referred to as the doctrine of precedent.

Stare decisis is a legal doctrine that means "to stand by things decided". It is a principle of common law that requires courts to follow precedents established in prior court decisions. This doctrine helps to ensure consistency and predictability in the law, and it prevents courts from overturning well-established legal principles.

Stare decisis is not absolute, however. Courts may depart from precedent in certain circumstances, such as when there has been a change in the law or when the precedent is no longer considered to be sound.