This history question requires analysis of historical events, causes, and consequences. The detailed answer below provides context, evidence, and a well-structured explanation.
Identify the scenario and relevant source of law.

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Answer
case law
Step 1: Identify the scenario and relevant source of law.
The scenario describes a newly qualified lawyer aiming to impress a client by demonstrating vast legal knowledge of case law on various permits researched. Case law is the body of law derived from judicial decisions and precedents.
Step 2: Confirm applicability.
In this context, the lawyer relies on prior court judgments (case law) to advise on permits, making it the directly applicable source of law. This is distinct from legislation (statutes) or the constitution, as the emphasis is on judicial interpretation.
Step 3: Discuss case law as a source of law.
Case law, also known as judge-made law or precedent, originates from decisions of superior courts. It binds lower courts through the doctrine of stare decisis ("to stand by things decided").
- Ratio decidendi: The binding legal principle of a case.
- Obiter dicta: Persuasive but non-binding remarks.
Courts follow precedents from higher courts in the same hierarchy to ensure consistency and predictability. In permit matters (e.g., building or environmental permits), case law interprets vague statutory terms, filling gaps in legislation.
Step 4: Relevance to common law jurisdictions.
Assuming a common law system (e.g., South Africa or England), case law is a primary source alongside the constitution and legislation. Here, researching "case law which is to her on the various permits" highlights its role in practical legal advice.
Final answer
The source of law applicable in the scenario is case law.
case law
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- Case law is the body of law derived from judicial decisions and precedents.
- This is distinct from legislation (statutes) or the constitution, as the emphasis is on judicial interpretation.
- Case law, also known as judge-made law or precedent, originates from decisions of superior courts.
- It binds lower courts through the doctrine of stare decisis ("to stand by things decided").