Final answer:
The decisions made by the traveling judges formed the basis of common law, developed through court opinions and shaped by the principle of stare decisis. This ensures stability and legitimacy of the judicial process, with the Supreme Court's decisions setting crucial precedents for the lower courts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The decisions made by the traveling judges became the basis of common law or case law, which develops through written opinions and rulings of courts. This forms a body of legal precedents that other courts and judges follow. The principle of stare decisis is fundamental in this system, dictating that new cases with similar facts should be decided in the same way as previous ones unless there is a strong justification for a different ruling. This adherence to precedent maintains consistency and stability in legal interpretations and contributes to the legitimacy of the judiciary. Over time, new precedents may emerge, reflecting changes in society or the composition of the courts.
The Supreme Court's decisions are particularly important as they set precedents that lower courts must follow, and thus, guide the future operation of the entire judicial system. Precedent ensures the even-handed administration of justice and upholds the court's role as the interpreter of the Constitution and the law. However, judicial interpretations and rulings vary across states, leading to decentralized and varied applications of the law.