In determining binding authority, which statement is true?

In determining binding authority, which statement is true?

• A. Higher court decisions within the same jurisdiction are binding on lower courts; decisions from other jurisdictions are persuasive but not binding.
• B. Only statutes are binding; all case law is advisory.
• C. Persuasive authorities from the same court level are binding if they agree with your conclusion.
• D. Administrative agency opinions are never binding on courts.

Answer: (A)

Binding authority comes from the court hierarchy within a jurisdiction. A higher court’s decision in the same jurisdiction binds all lower courts, creating binding precedent that must be followed. Decisions from other jurisdictions are persuasive but not binding, meaning they can influence reasoning but don’t control the outcome. This structure ensures consistency and predictability in how the law is applied.

Binding authority comes from the court hierarchy within a jurisdiction. A higher court’s decision in the same jurisdiction binds all lower courts, creating binding precedent that must be followed. Decisions from other jurisdictions are persuasive but not binding, meaning they can influence reasoning but don’t control the outcome. This structure ensures consistency and predictability in how the law is applied.