How does the precedent work in the UK?

Answer 1

In the UK, precedent, or case law, operates on the principle of stare decisis, meaning that lower courts are bound to follow the decisions made by higher courts in similar cases. This creates consistency and predictability in the law. Judicial decisions set out legal principles that must be applied in future cases, and these can be binding (if from a higher court) or persuasive (if from courts of the same level or lower). The Supreme Court can also depart from its own previous decisions in certain circumstances, allowing for legal evolution.