A Level Law Practice Exam

In the context of case law, what is a classic example of ratio decidendi?

1. The principle that duress is a defense to murder

2. The ruling that self-defense is a valid justification

3. The decision in R v Howe regarding duress and murder

4. The requirement for corroborative evidence in sexual offenses

The correct answer is: The decision in R v Howe regarding duress and murder

The correct answer is the decision in R v Howe regarding duress and murder because it directly illustrates the concept of ratio decidendi, which refers to the legal principle or rule that is established in a judicial decision. In this case, the House of Lords clarified the limitations of the defense of duress in situations involving murder. The ruling set a precedent that has been influential in subsequent cases dealing with similar issues. The other options do not represent specific judicial decisions that lay down legal principles in the same direct manner. For instance, while the principles of duress and self-defense are indeed important legal concepts, options discussing these principles generally describe the broader legal context rather than a specific case that clarified the law. Thus, while they highlight important aspects of the law, they do not serve as a quintessential example of ratio decidendi as the decision in R v Howe does.