Case of first impression
From Freepedia
(Redirected from First impression)
A case of first impression is a case or controversy over an interpretation of law never before reported or decided by that court. There is no binding authority in a case of first impression.
A case of first impression may be a case of first impression in only a particular jurisdiction. In that situation, courts will look to holdings of other jurisdictions for persuasive authority.
Where no persuasive authority exists, a judge will look to legal analogies, legal commentary, legal briefs of the parties, and his or her own legal logic.
In some situations, a case of first impression may exist in a jurisdiction until a reported appellate court decision is rendered.
