Illinois Law Enforcement Training and Standards Board (ILETSB) Practice Exam

What does stare decisis refer to in the context of law?

1. The elimination of previous legal decisions

2. The practice of deciding new cases with reference to former decisions

3. The establishment of new legal precedents

4. The authority of the Supreme Court over federal law

The correct answer is: The practice of deciding new cases with reference to former decisions

Stare decisis is a legal principle that emphasizes the obligation of courts to adhere to established precedent when making decisions in new cases. This practice ensures consistency and predictability in the law, as judges look to previous rulings to guide their interpretations and decisions. By referencing former decisions, courts reinforce the stability of legal outcomes, allowing individuals and entities to have confidence in the legal system and its application over time. The concept is important because it helps to maintain a reliable and coherent legal framework, which is essential for justice and the rule of law. When a court decides a new case in alignment with prior rulings, it affirms the importance of established case law and the value of judicial consistency. This practice is foundational in common law systems and is crucial when courts address issues that may have already been adjudicated, ensuring similar cases are treated similarly. In this context, the other options do not accurately reflect the concept of stare decisis. The elimination of previous legal decisions does not support the idea of consistency in the law, while the establishment of new legal precedents runs counter to relying on past decisions. Similarly, while the authority of the Supreme Court over federal law is significant, it does not capture the essence of the principle of stare decisis, which is