Obiter dictum

“Obiter dictum” is a Latin legal term that means “by the way” or “in passing.” It refers to comments made by a judge in a legal opinion that are not necessary for the decision reached in the case. These comments are not legally binding and do not establish legal precedent. Instead, they are often opinions or observations made by the judge while discussing the main issues of the case. While obiter dicta can provide insight into a judge’s thinking, they do not carry the same legal weight as the primary decision of a case, which is known as the “ratio decidendi.” Judges may use obiter dicta to offer guidance or commentary on legal principles, but they are not legally binding and are not considered part of the binding precedent.