ACCA LW · Chapter 1 · Question 3 of 10
Under the doctrine of judicial precedent, which part of a judgment binds later courts lower in the hierarchy?
Test yourself: pick an answer
Reveal answer & explanation
Correct answer: B) The ratio decidendi
Explanation
The ratio decidendi is the legal principle on which the decision is based, and it is binding on lower courts in later cases with materially similar facts. Obiter dicta are statements 'by the way' and are only persuasive. Dissenting judgments are not binding, although they may later persuade a higher court.
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