OSH Security Practice Test

Which of the following regarding the court system is true?

1. Ontario Court decisions supersede those of the Supreme Court of Canada

2. Municipalities have the authority to make laws contradicting provincial laws

3. Lower courts are bound by the decisions of higher courts

4. Provincial Appeals Courts are the highest courts in the land

The correct answer is: Lower courts are bound by the decisions of higher courts

The statement that lower courts are bound by the decisions of higher courts is true and reflects a fundamental principle of judicial hierarchy known as stare decisis. This principle ensures that lower courts follow the precedents set by higher courts in order to maintain consistency and stability in the law. In the judicial system, decisions made by higher courts establish legal standards that lower courts must adhere to when making their own rulings. This structure is essential for creating a predictable legal environment where individuals and entities can have confidence in the outcome of legal proceedings. In contrast, the other statements present inaccuracies regarding the hierarchy and authority within the court system. For instance, court decisions from Ontario do not supersede those from the Supreme Court of Canada, which is the highest court in the nation. Municipalities are limited in their legislative authority and cannot enact laws that contradict provincial laws, as provincial legislation takes precedence. Lastly, provincial Appeals Courts are not the highest courts; they exist under the Supreme Court of Canada, which is the ultimate authority in the country’s judicial system.