precedent (law), n.Definitions

Precedent (law) is, in law, a previous decision, rule or practice which … has whatever force and authority a Judge may choose to give it, thereby greatly simplifying his task of doing as he pleases.

Precedent (law) is, in law, a previous decision, rule or practice which, in the absence of a definite statute, has whatever force and authority a judge may choose to give it, thereby greatly simplifying his task of doing as he pleases