Legal Research terms

The law as established by the outcomes and opinions of former court cases, rather than through legislative statutes.

The written explanation by a judge or court detailing the rationale and legal principles behind their ruling.

The core legal principle or rule derived from a court's decision in a specific case.

The specific geographic area or legal authority within which a court has the right to make decisions.

A previous court decision that serves as a recognized rule or guide for deciding subsequent cases with similar facts.

A rule or directive made and maintained by an administrative agency or authority.

A written law passed by a legislative body.

How subsequent court cases have viewed or applied a specific prior case (e.g., whether it was followed, distinguished, or overturned).