The doctrine of stare decisis pertains to which legal concept?

The doctrine of stare decisis is fundamentally tied to case law, which is the body of law developed from judicial decisions rather than statutes. Stare decisis, Latin for "to stand by things decided," requires that courts follow the precedents set by previous rulings in similar cases. This principle ensures consistency and predictability in the law, as it binds lower courts to the decisions of higher courts within the same jurisdiction.

In the context of funeral service education, understanding stare decisis is crucial for recognizing how case law influences various aspects of the profession, from liability issues to regulatory practices. It highlights the importance of previous judicial decisions in shaping current legal interpretations and applications within the field.