precedent
/ˈpɹɛsɪdənt/
A legal decision that serves as an authoritative rule in future cases
precedent in a sentence
“The Supreme Court set a precedent that lower courts must follow.”
Origin of precedent
From Latin praecedere (to go before), from prae- (before) + cedere (to go)
Related Words
jurisdiction
The official power to make legal decisions
litigation
The process of taking legal action
deposition
Testimony taken under oath outside of court
affidavit
A written statement confirmed by oath for use as evidence
subpoena
A legal document ordering someone to attend court
habeas corpus
A court order requiring a person to be brought before a judge