Meaning of precedent

Definition of precedent

(adj) preceding in time, order, or significance
(noun) an example that is used to justify similar occurrences at a later time
(civil law) a law established by following earlier judicial decisions
a system of jurisprudence based on judicial precedents rather than statutory laws; "common law originated in the unwritten laws of England and was later applied in the United States"
a subject mentioned earlier (preceding in time)

Other information on precedent

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