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By Akash Pandey<\/strong> : <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ratio Decidendi<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The meaning of ratio decidendi<\/em> is Latin for \u201cthe reason,\u201d or \u201cthe foundation for\u201d a decision. For example, ratio decidendi<\/em> in the field of law refers to the moment or principle in a case that ultimately determines its outcome. Ratio decidendi<\/em> is a legal rule regarding the legal reasoning behind the judgment of the judge or jury. Ratio <\/em>includes all of the principles a court relies on \u2013 be they moral, political, or social \u2013 to justify their reasoning for coming to a decision in a case. A ratio <\/em>is comprised of the legal points made by all the parties to a case. An example of ratio decidendi is the case of Donoghue v. Stevenson<\/em> (1932), otherwise known as the \u201csnail in the bottle case.\u201d This case is a good ratio decidendi<\/em> example because it explores the idea that a person can owe a duty of care<\/u><\/a> to another person whom he can reasonably foresee will suffer effects as the result of his actions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Obiter Dicta<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Latin term obiter dicta<\/em> means \u201cthings said by the way,\u201d and is generally used in law to refer to an opinion or non-necessary remark made by a judge. In a legal ruling, made by a higher court, the actual decision becomes binding precedent. Remarks about such things as how the court came to its decision are not binding, and it is to these that the term refers. Obiter dicta<\/em> may be as short as a brief aside or a hypothetical example, or as long as a thorough discussion of relevant law.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For example:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Julia, who purchased an Acme washer and dryer set, was disappointed when only a month later the washing machine stopped working. Having been told that the appliance had a one-year warranty against manufacturer defects, she attempted to make a claim to have her washing machine repaired or replaced.<\/p>\n\n\n\n