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Legal considerations

First, let us examine briefly some of the legal considerations involved.

It is an accepted juridical principle in California that a Superior Court decision does not constitute a binding legal precedent.

It is conclusive, unless appealed, only upon the particular parties to the particular action which was heard.

It is not binding upon another Superior Court, which could rule to the contrary.

Only when a decision is rendered by the District Court of Appeal ( or, of course, the Supreme Court ) is a binding precedent established.

In that event, we can correctly say that we have received an authoritative interpretation of the matter, and one which we can follow statewide with confidence that the policy will not be overthrown in other Superior Courts.