Final answer:
Reliance on past decisions in court rulings to guide new cases is known as b) stare decisis, which is Latin for 'stand by things decided'.
Step-by-step explanation:
In court rulings, reliance on past decisions to formulate decisions in new cases is known as stare decisis. This principle, which is Latin for "stand by things decided", dictates that courts should follow precedents.
which are principles or guidelines established by courts in earlier cases. Stare decisis ensures consistency and stability in the legal system, as it directs judges to apply the rule of law from previous relevant cases to current ones.
Unless there is a strong justification for overturning the precedent.While judges rely heavily on precedent, they are sometimes willing to reconsider and overturn them.
Especially in order to correct for violations of human rights or to adjust to changing times and circumstances. However, such changes in precedent are typically approached with caution to maintain the legitimacy and predictability of the legal system.