A Level Law Practice Exam

What does judicial precedent encompass?

1. Legal precedents set purely by statutes

2. Legal principles derived from judicial decisions in prior cases

3. Legal rules developed by legislative bodies

4. Legal interpretations of constitutional provisions

The correct answer is: Legal principles derived from judicial decisions in prior cases

The correct answer encompasses the concept that judicial precedent is fundamentally based on the legal principles established by courts in previous cases. This principle illustrates how past judicial decisions can influence and guide future cases, creating a consistent legal framework and ensuring that similar cases are treated alike, adhering to the doctrine of stare decisis. Legal precedents contribute significantly to case law, which is a critical component of the legal system, particularly in common law jurisdictions. The reliance on these precedents allows for the evolution of law in conjunction with societal changes, as courts interpret and apply legal principles over time. The incorrect options reflect other aspects of the legal system that do not pertain directly to judicial precedent. Legal rules from legislative bodies focus on statutes, which are different from common law derived from judicial decisions. Therefore, while statutes constitute an essential part of law, they are not considered judicial precedents. Similarly, interpretations of constitutional provisions or purely statutory legal precedents do not involve judicial precedent as it is understood in the context of case law.