To what extent should the court priortize jurisprudential fidelity as against doing substantial justice

Prioritizing fidelity ensures predictability, consistency, and upholds the rule of law, preventing arbitrary decisions. It maintains public confidence by showing that judges apply, not make, law.

However, an overemphasis on fidelity can lead to harsh or unjust outcomes in unique circumstances, where a literal application of a rule might defeat the spirit of the law.

Ultimately, courts strive for a balance. While fidelity provides stability, judges often use tools like purposive interpretation or equitable principles to achieve substantial justice without entirely abandoning established legal frameworks. The ideal balance depends on the specific case and the potential impact of the decision.