3. Which of the following is the best definition of "ratio decidendi"? (A) It refers to that part of the judgment that was not strictly necessary for the decision that was reached. (B) It refers to that part of the judgment that cannot be appealed to a higher court. (C) It refers to that part of the judgment that is binding on all courts lower in the same hierarchy when the facts are similar. (D) It refers to the decision of the court at first instance (the trial court)