stare decisis

noun

sta·​re de·​ci·​sis ˌster-ē-di-ˈsī-səs How to pronounce stare decisis (audio)
ˌstär-
: a doctrine or policy of following rules or principles laid down in previous judicial decisions unless they contravene the ordinary principles of justice

Examples of stare decisis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Of course, this Court’s Republican majority has shown little regard for stare decisis, at least in cases that divide along partisan lines. Ian Millhiser, Vox, 7 Dec. 2018 In the majority opinion, Chief Justice Roberts suggested that there was a form of stare decisis for rules that already had been upheld under the Chevron doctrine not to be relitigated. Tax Notes Staff, Forbes, 10 Sep. 2024 Still, Sheridan argued that stare decisis, along with lawmakers’ inability to pass legislation effectively addressing gun safety issues, required him to rule in favor of the rifle club association. Ray Lewis, Baltimore Sun, 1 Aug. 2024 The holdings of those cases that specific agency actions are lawful—including the Clean Air Act holding of Chevron itself—are still subject to statutory stare decisis despite our change in interpretive methodology. Jon Brodkin, Ars Technica, 15 July 2024 See all Example Sentences for stare decisis 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'stare decisis.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Latin, to stand by decided matters

First Known Use

1754, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of stare decisis was in 1754

Dictionary Entries Near stare decisis

Cite this Entry

“Stare decisis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stare%20decisis. Accessed 5 Nov. 2024.

Legal Definition

stare decisis

noun
: the doctrine under which courts adhere to precedent on questions of law in order to insure certainty, consistency, and stability in the administration of justice with departure from precedent permitted for compelling reasons (as to prevent the perpetuation of injustice)
Etymology

New Latin, to stand by things that have been settled

More from Merriam-Webster on stare decisis

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