Legal Precedent and Stare Decisis
Grade 11th Grade · Social Studies · 45 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can explain how legal precedent and stare decisis influence court decisions.
Warm-Up Video
Khan Academy · 4:03
Stare decisis and precedent in the Supreme Court | US government and civics | Khan Academy
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The principle of stare decisis, Latin for 'let the decision stand,' guides Supreme Court justices to use previous rulings as examples in similar cases, establishing precedent.
- 2
Although the Supreme Court aims to be objective, justices' views and experiences introduce subjectivity, and presidential appointments can shift the court's direction over time.
- 3
The Supreme Court case Brown versus Board of Education overturned the precedent set by Plessy versus Ferguson, demonstrating how changes in politics and judicial appointments can alter legal interpretations.
Practice Questions
10 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Explain how the Supreme Court uses legal precedent and the doctrine of stare decisis when making decisions. Provide an example from the video transcript of the Supreme Court overturning precedent.”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
