What is the role of 'precedent' in legal cases?

The role of 'precedent' in legal cases primarily involves ensuring that courts follow previous judicial decisions. This principle is known as stare decisis, which means "to stand by things decided." When a court makes a ruling on a legal issue, that decision serves as a guideline for future cases with similar facts or legal questions. By adhering to established precedents, the legal system maintains consistency and predictability, allowing individuals and entities to understand their rights and obligations under the law.

Utilizing precedent not only helps in delivering fair judgments but also reinforces the integrity of the judiciary by demonstrating that similar cases are treated similarly. This promotes efficiency in the legal process because it reduces the need for extensive re-litigation of settled issues.

Other options may suggest different aspects of the legal system but do not capture the essence of precedent. For example, precedent does not establish new laws directly; rather, it interprets and applies existing laws. Additionally, it does not serve merely as a guideline for law enforcement, as that involves a broader context of enforcement practices and policies outside of judicial rulings. Precedent also does not focus on creating legal privileges for certain individuals, as it pertains to the uniform application of law rather than the entitlements of specific groups. Thus, the