leading case
Definition
Noun (Legal term): - A "leading case" is a judicial decision that establishes a significant legal principle or rule, serving as an authoritative precedent for future cases with similar facts. It is a case that is frequently cited by courts and lawyers as a model or standard for interpreting the law.
Usage Examples
- (This decision set the precedent that courts can declare laws unconstitutional.)
- (This case established the principle that an offer can be accepted by performance.)
- (These cases are essential for learning foundational legal concepts.)
Advanced Usage
"to cite a leading case": to refer to a precedent-setting decision in legal arguments.
- The attorney cited a leading case from the 19th century to support her argument. (She used an established precedent to strengthen her case.)
"to overrule a leading case": when a higher court reverses or replaces a precedent.
- The court decided to overrule the leading case, changing the direction of tort law. (The old precedent was no longer considered correct.)
Variants and Related Words
- Leading (adj): most important or influential.
- This is a leading decision in environmental law. (It is a key precedent.)
- Case (n): a legal dispute brought before a court.
- The case was heard by the Court of Appeal. (The legal matter being adjudicated.)
Synonyms
- Precedent: a previous case that serves as a rule for future cases.
- Landmark case: a case that marks a significant turning point in legal development.
- Authoritative decision: a ruling that is widely accepted as binding or persuasive.
Related Idioms
- "To set a precedent": to establish a pattern or rule for future decisions.
- This ruling sets a precedent for similar disputes. (It creates a standard to follow.)
- "To be a test case": a case used to challenge or clarify a legal principle.
- The lawsuit was a test case for new privacy laws. (It was used to determine how the law would be applied.)