For the legal system, what is the term for relying on past judicial decisions to resolve current cases?

• A. Precedent
• B. Live case doctrine
• C. Judicial activism
• D. Originalism

Answer: (A)

Precedent is the term for relying on past judicial decisions to resolve current cases. In a common law system, judges look to earlier rulings with similar facts to determine the outcome, guided by stare decisis—the idea that stable, predictable rules should stand over time. Binding precedent from higher courts governs how lower courts decide, while persuasive precedent from other jurisdictions can influence decisions. This approach helps ensure consistency in how the law is applied across cases. Other ideas don’t fit this concept: the notion of a “live case doctrine” isn’t a standard legal term; judicial activism refers to judges taking a more policy-driven role in decisions; and originalism focuses on interpreting the Constitution based on its original meaning rather than following prior court decisions.