The doctrine of stare decisis means that:
A) the common law has not been able to evolve in a stable and predictable manner.
B) certain decisions cannot be appealed.
C) courts adhere to and rely on rules of law that they or superior courts announced and applied in prior similar decisions.
D) courts are not allowed to correct erroneous decisions or choose among conflicting precedents.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Stare decisis means that courts rely on and adhere to rules of law established in prior similar decisions. It allows for consistency and predictability in the law. A and D are incorrect because the doctrine of stare decisis is designed to provide stability and correctness in the common law system, and it also allows for correcting erroneous decisions through the appeals process. B is incorrect because most decisions can be appealed, although there are some limited exceptions.

The Doctrine of Stare Decisis Means That