Notes for Introduction to law (LAWS1011A at Wits University).
A comprehensive summary of the topic content - including diagrams, definitions and explanations where applicable.
Judicial Precedent
Created @August 15, 2022 1:59 PM
Class
Type
Materials S v M - Primary Caregiver case.pdf
Reviewed
consultation room 137 in the law building Thursdays at 11-12
chapter 3 pg 82-111
constitution 17th amendement act
superior courts act 10
judicial precedent handout
What is judicial precedent?
a previous decision by a court that may or must be followed by current and/or future
courts
principle of stare decisis: courts stand by previous decisions and do not disturb settled
law
How judicial precedent works:
Finds other cases with similar cases and use decision of previous court decision.
doesn’t have to, but could be pursuaded → persuasive decision
prospectively → affects future cases
Judicial Precedent 1
, Importance of judicial precedent
binds lower courts
binds courts of final jurisdiction
respect for courts of higher authority
uniformity
fairness
Hierarchy
1. concourt
2. SCA
3. High court
4. Lower courts
lower courts are bound to the decisions of the courts above
all courts are bound to decisions made by concourt
17th amendment:
increase the jurisdiction of con court
highest court to make decisions on constitutional matters → con court=apex court
hears any other matter than raises genuine public issue → can set precedent on
any matter
con court decisions are binding for all courts
Con court can change its decisions
changing community values
Judicial Precedent 2
The benefits of buying summaries with Stuvia:
Guaranteed quality through customer reviews
Stuvia customers have reviewed more than 700,000 summaries. This how you know that you are buying the best documents.
Quick and easy check-out
You can quickly pay through credit card or Stuvia-credit for the summaries. There is no membership needed.
Focus on what matters
Your fellow students write the study notes themselves, which is why the documents are always reliable and up-to-date. This ensures you quickly get to the core!
Frequently asked questions
What do I get when I buy this document?
You get a PDF, available immediately after your purchase. The purchased document is accessible anytime, anywhere and indefinitely through your profile.
Satisfaction guarantee: how does it work?
Our satisfaction guarantee ensures that you always find a study document that suits you well. You fill out a form, and our customer service team takes care of the rest.
Who am I buying these notes from?
Stuvia is a marketplace, so you are not buying this document from us, but from seller Itsreewilson. Stuvia facilitates payment to the seller.
Will I be stuck with a subscription?
No, you only buy these notes for $6.81. You're not tied to anything after your purchase.