What is "precedent" in a legal context?

In a legal context, "precedent" refers to a previously decided case that serves as a standard or example for future cases. Precedents play a crucial role in the judicial system, particularly in common law jurisdictions, where they help ensure consistency and predictability in the law. When a court makes a decision in a case, that ruling may establish a legal principle that other courts can follow in similar circumstances. This practice not only aids in the fair application of the law but also contributes to the evolution of legal interpretations over time, as courts may reassess and adjust precedents based on new information or societal changes.

The other options don't capture the essence of what precedent means in legal terms. Pending laws, types of evidence, and plea bargaining pertain to different aspects of the legal process and do not reflect the concept of using past cases to guide future judicial decisions.