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The term used to describe prior court decisions that guide future cases is "precedents." In the legal system, precedent refers to a legal principle or rule established in a previous court decision that courts are obliged to follow when deciding subsequent cases with similar facts or legal issues. This concept is rooted in the doctrine of stare decisis, which promotes consistency and predictability in the law by ensuring that similar cases are treated alike.

By adhering to precedents, courts maintain stability in the legal system and facilitate a coherent legal framework that helps attorneys, judges, and clients understand how laws are likely to be applied in future situations. This practice is a fundamental aspect of common law systems, where case law plays a crucial role in shaping legal standards and interpretations.

Other options, while related to legal processes, do not encompass this specific principle. Analogous cases might be referred to for persuasive arguments but do not carry the authoritative weight of precedential rulings. Court orders are directives issued by a judge that require specific actions or decisions in a case but do not serve as guiding principles for future cases. Statutes are written laws passed by legislative bodies, which are distinct from case law and do not inherently rely on prior court decisions.