Precedent is generally established by a series of decisions. Sometimes, a single decision can create precedent. For example, a single statutory interpretation by the highest court of a state is generally considered originally part of the statute.

How are precedents set and followed?

Binding precedent relies on the legal principle of stare decisis. Stare decisis means to stand by things decided. ... Given a determination as to the governing jurisdiction, a court is "bound" to follow a precedent of that jurisdiction only if it is directly in point.

How are precedents established through case law?

Judicial precedent operates under the principle of stare decisis which literally means “to stand by decisions”. This principle means that a court must follow and apply the law as set out in the decisions of higher courts in previous cases.