What is referred to as governing principles in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, the term that most closely aligns with governing principles is often recognized as legal precedents. Legal precedents are established by previous court decisions and serve as a foundation for future cases, guiding judges in their rulings and ensuring consistency in the application of law. They embody principles that come from historical rulings and interpretations of the law, shaping the way similar cases are approached in the future.

Statutory frameworks refer to laws enacted by legislative bodies. While important, they are specific statutes and do not encapsulate the broader concept of governing principles on their own. Public opinion, while influential in shaping laws and societal norms, does not have legal standing in governing how laws are interpreted or applied. Pure rules, as a term, lacks the specificity and recognized application found in legal terminology regarding established guidelines or principles. Thus, the most accurate choice that captures the essence of governing principles in legal contexts is legal precedents.