How to Read and Understand a Judicial Opinion

Reading a judicial opinion can appear to be a daunting task at the outset, particularly
one with a page count numbering in the dozens. This webinar introduces attendees to
the structure, language, and reasoning found in court opinions. We will learn how to
identify key components of an opinion—such as the facts, procedural history, issues,
holdings, and reasoning—and how to distinguish between majority, concurring, and
dissenting opinions. We will also cover practical techniques for extracting the rule of law,
understanding legal terminology, and critically analyzing judicial logic. Attendees will be
better equipped to read cases efficiently, grasp their significance, and apply them in
practical contexts.