Question

When the NTSB (or a court) distinguishes a current case from a prior case:

A. It must always rule in favor of the FAA.
B. It is irrelevant to the decision.
C. It helps to clarify the application of the law.

Answer 1

The NTSB or a court distinguishes a current case from a prior one to clarify the application of the law, often as part of the stare decisis principle, ensuring legal consistency but also allowing for new precedents when necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

When the NTSB (National Transportation Safety Board) or a court distinguishes a current case from a prior case, it helps to clarify the application of the law. This process involves analyzing the facts and legal principles of both cases to determine whether the precedent, or previous decisions, should apply to the current case. This practice, known as stare decisis, ensures consistency and stability in the legal system.

However, when cases involve new legal questions or substantially different facts, courts may arrive at differing conclusions, which may lead to new precedents. The courts' flexibility in interpreting and applying the law allows for adaptation to changing times and circumstances, reflecting the evolution of legal understanding and societal needs.