Final answer:
A controlling rule, example, or guide in the judicial system is known as precedent, which involves judges following previously established rulings in similar cases to ensure legal consistency.
Step-by-step explanation:
A controlling rule, example, or guide in the context of the judiciary is also known as precedent. This term refers to the legal principle, established by stare decisis, which means "let the decision stand" in Latin. When judges make decisions, they rely on previous rulings in similar cases to guide their interpretation of the law and the application to the current case.
Precedent is therefore the concept that courts should follow the principles or guidelines set by previous decisions when considering new cases that are similar in nature. This system of relying on case law ensures consistency and predictability in legal judgments, providing a framework within which the courts operate.