Question

Is the state court in Nebraska obligated to follow the California Supreme Court’s decision? Explain. At least a four-sentence answer.

Answer 1

Answer:

Only a decision made by the US Supreme Court is binding to all the courts in the country (regarding federal laws). Decisions made by the California Supreme Court are binding for all the state courts in California (not federal courts), but they are not binding to other courts outside California.

The logic behind this is that California laws might be different than Nebraska laws, and therefore, even if the crime committed is the same, the punishment or procedures might vary and a lot. Some court cases may serve as precedents and might be used by courts in different states, but they are not binding in any way and it depends on the interpretation of the local court to do so.