Vorentscheidung; v. a. gerichtl. Entscheidung eines Präzedenzfalls, die häufig bindende Wirkung für spätere Entscheidungen in gleichgelagerten Fällen hat.
An example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time; SYN. case in point.
Common law principle that, in deciding a particular case, judges are bound to follow any applicable principles of law laid down by superior courts in earlier reported cases.