"Stare Decisis" is a Latin legal principle that means "to stand by things decided." It emphasizes the importance of following precedent in legal decisions. This principle ensures consistency, stability, and predictability in the legal system.
Under this doctrine, courts are expected to follow earlier judicial decisions when the same points arise again in litigation. It helps lower courts to follow rulings made by higher courts in the same jurisdiction.
Explanation of other options:
- Habeas Corpus: A writ used to bring a person before a court to determine if their detention is lawful.
- Pro Bono: Legal work done voluntarily and free of charge.
- Res Ipsa Loquitur: "The thing speaks for itself"—used in tort cases where negligence is inferred from the nature of the accident.