What Latin term describes the legal principle that courts should follow previous decisions?

In law, the principle that courts should adhere to previous decisions is known by the Latin term stare decisis. This phrase literally translates to "to stand by things decided" or "let the decision stand," and it forms a cornerstone of common law legal systems around the world, including in the United States. The concept ensures that once a court has ruled on a particular legal issue, that decision serves as a precedent, guiding or even binding future courts when faced with similar circumstances.

The primary purpose of stare decisis is to foster stability, predictability, and fairness within the legal system. Without it, the application of law could appear arbitrary, with similar cases potentially yielding vastly different outcomes depending on the individual judge. By following established precedents, stare decisis promotes the consistent development of legal principles, allowing individuals and businesses to understand the likely legal consequences of their actions. This adherence to past rulings also enhances the integrity of the judicial process, as it suggests that the law is based on reasoned decisions rather than personal biases.

While stare decisis is a powerful principle, it is not an absolute command. Courts, particularly higher appellate courts, can sometimes overrule their own precedents if they find them to be unworkable, poorly reasoned, or if there's a significant change in circumstances or legal understanding. This flexibility allows the law to evolve and adapt to societal changes while still maintaining a strong respect for its historical foundations. The doctrine operates both horizontally, meaning a court adheres to its own prior decisions, and vertically, where lower courts must follow the decisions of higher courts within the same jurisdiction.