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opinion definition - legal

n

The court’s statement of  its decision, usually written by a single judge, citing the facts, points of law, rationale, and decision or verdict. See also decision, judgment and verdict.
concurring opinion
In appellate cases, a joining in by one or more judges to the principal opinion in the case, but for differing reasons or basis.
dissenting opinion
An opinion written by one or more judges that disagrees with the one reached by the majority of the court.
majority opinion
The opinion reached by the majority of the court; usually known simply as the opinion.
per curiam opinion
(Latin.) By the court; an opinion reached by an appeals court and handed down without identifying its writer by name.

Webster's New World Law Dictionary Copyright © 2006 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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