Term- ratio decidendi
Translation- Reason for the decision
Definition- The point in a legal proceeding, or the legal precedent so involved, which led to the final decision being what it was.
“Ratio decidendi” is a Latin term that means “the reason for the decision.” In legal contexts, it refers to the legal principle or rule that a court relies on to reach its decision in a particular case.
The ratio decidendi is the essential part of a court’s decision, as it explains the reasoning behind the ruling and sets out the legal principle that should guide future similar cases. It is binding on lower courts and must be followed in subsequent cases with similar facts and legal issues.
In contrast, “obiter dicta” are statements or opinions made by a judge in a decision that are not essential to the reasoning and do not form part of the ratio decidendi. While obiter dicta may be persuasive, they are not binding on lower courts and do not have the force of law.
Overall, “ratio decidendi” is a legal term that refers to the legal principle or rule that a court relies on to reach its decision in a particular case. It is binding on lower courts and sets out the legal principle that should guide future similar cases.
