What is the doctrine that requires courts to follow earlier decisions within the same jurisdiction?

The doctrine that requires courts to follow earlier decisions within the same jurisdiction is known as stare decisis. This legal principle ensures consistency and predictability in the law by mandating that courts adhere to precedents established by previous court rulings. When a court encounters a case with similar facts and legal issues, it should apply the same reasoning as found in prior decisions unless there is a compelling reason to deviate.

Stare decisis promotes judicial efficiency, as it allows courts to rely on established interpretations of law rather than re-evaluating the same issues over and over again. This doctrine is fundamental to the common law system and helps maintain stability and order in legal proceedings.

Res judicata refers to the principle that a matter that has been adjudicated by a competent court cannot be brought before the same or a different court again. De novo is a term that means "from the beginning," often used when a court reviews a case as if it were being heard for the first time. Mens rea pertains to the mental state or intent of a person committing a crime. Each of these terms has its own specific legal context, which differs from the principle of stare decisis.