DOCTRINE OF PRECEDENT

doctrine of precedent. 1. The rule that precedents not only have persuasive authority but also

must be followed when similar circumstances arise. • This rule developed in the 19th century and

prevails  today.  See  STARE  DECISIS.  [Cases:  Courts    88.  C.J.S.  Courts  §  139;  Trade-Marks,

Trade-Names, and Unfair Competition§ 187.] 2. A rule that precedents are reported, may be cited,

and will probably be followed by courts. • This is the rule that prevailed in England until the 19th

century. [Blacks Law 8th]