Reading Assignment for Section 1.4

Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 1.4: Case Law. Note: Be sure to review all pages in this section, as the content spans multiple pages.

What You Will Learn

In this section, you will dive into the concept of case law and discover how judicial decisions shape and interpret statutory law. You’ll explore the appellate process and learn how appellate courts review lower court rulings to create legal precedents. Additionally, you’ll examine the influence of binding and persuasive precedents on judicial decision-making and understand the importance of consistency and fairness in legal interpretations.

Student Learning Outcomes for Section 1.4

• SLO 1: Explain the concept of case law and describe its role in shaping and interpreting statutory law through judicial decisions.
• SLO 2: Analyze the appellate process, including the roles of appellate courts in reviewing lower court decisions and shaping legal precedents.
• SLO 3: Differentiate between binding and persuasive precedents, explaining their influence on judicial decision-making and the doctrine of stare decisis.
• SLO 4: Evaluate the significance of appellate court outcomes—affirmation, reversal, and remand—and their impact on future legal interpretations and applications.
• SLO 5: Demonstrate an understanding of mandatory authority and its role in ensuring consistency and fairness across legal jurisdictions, while recognizing exceptions to its application.