Court Reporter Practice Exam

What does stare decisis refer to in legal terms?

1. A new law established by the legislature

2. A legal norm established in previous cases

3. A method of jury selection

4. A rule for conducting trials

The correct answer is: A legal norm established in previous cases

Stare decisis is a fundamental legal principle that translates from Latin to "to stand by things decided." This doctrine emphasizes the importance of precedent in the legal system, meaning that courts should follow the rulings made in previous cases when the facts of a current case are similar. This principle helps to ensure consistency and predictability in the law, allowing individuals and legal practitioners to have a clear understanding of how the law will be applied in specific circumstances. By adhering to stare decisis, courts contribute to the stability of the legal system, as similar cases are treated similarly, reducing the likelihood of arbitrary or varied verdicts. This practice can also streamline legal processes and enhance the efficiency of the court system by building upon established legal interpretations rather than always starting from scratch with each new case. The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of stare decisis. A new law established by the legislature pertains to statutory law rather than judicial precedent. A method of jury selection refers to procedural aspects of trials, while a rule for conducting trials generally involves trial procedures and guidelines rather than the concept of adhering to previous case law.