First, let me clearly state IANAL, so this will be from a layman's perspective. I will use some definitions, but only to help you and I have a basis to understand the distinction between stare decisis and precedent. My experience here has shown me that most everyone here has an above average IQ (part of the reason we're so contentious), so I'll try not to get too remedial.
Encyclopedia Britannica describes stare decisis as;
In common law, the doctrine under which courts adhere to precedent on questions of law in order to ensure certainty, consistency, and stability in the administration of justice. Since no court decision can have universal application, the courts, in practice, must often decide that a previous decision does not apply to a particular case even though the facts and issues appear to be closely similar. A strict application of stare decisis may lead to rigidity and to legal hairsplitting, whereas too much flexibility may result in uncertainty.
Lectlaw.com describes precedent as;
PRECEDENT - Legal principle, created by a court decision, which provides an example or authority for judges deciding similar issues later.
snip
Decisions of lower courts are not binding on higher courts, although from time to time a higher court will adopt the reasoning and conclusion of a lower court. Decisions by courts of the same level (usually appellate courts) are considered persuasive authority. That is, they should always be carefully considered by the later court but need not be followed.
As a practical matter, courts can usually find precedent for any direction they want to go in deciding a particular case. Accordingly, precedent is used as often to justify a particular outcome in a case as it is to guide the decision.
My take on the the two legal terms above is, if you have enough precedents by the Courts from all levels including SCOTUS you have what is determined to be stare decisis. The problem we have come up against in Citizens United vs FEC is, SCOTUS is using the argument that;
The doctrine of stare decisis is not always to be relied upon, for the courts find it necessary to overrule cases which have been hastily decided, or contrary to principle.
In other words, stare decisis is, until it isn't and it's up to SCOTUS to determine when.
With the current make up of SCOTUS there is a great risk to many legal and cultural decision that we thought were settled that could be reversed. From Roe vs Wade to Brown vs BOE. The invitations to interested parties have been delivered and the door has been opened. (GWB did the job he was sent to DC for; lay the groundwork for changing the culture of the US via SCOTUS).
My take here is in no way meant to be definitive, but from this layman's perspective, WE'RE SCREWED!
BTW, don't forget to to NFTT.
On with the games!!
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MKinTN posted a diary to help everyone achieve greater success called How to Succeed at Mojo Friday Without Really Trying.
For those of you new to MF (Mojo Friday) we have our own lingo about a few things. Thank's to MF'er Jez (the link will explain) go to this diary for a little more fun and explanation. Official Mojo Friday Snecktionary.