In law, an opinion usually means a court’s written explanation of its decision. It states the result of the case and explains the facts, legal reasoning, and holding the court relied on.

An opinion may be written by a Judge or an appellate panel, and it often matters because later courts and litigants look to written opinions for guidance.

Opinion Explained

Cornell Wex describes a judicial opinion as the court’s written statement explaining its decision for the case. Federal appellate guidance likewise explains that a panel’s decision is usually accompanied by an opinion explaining the rationale for the result.

The Term Opinion in Different Legal Contexts

Trial courts may issue opinions when resolving motions or complex legal questions. Appellate courts often issue opinions after briefs or oral argument, explaining whether a lower court is affirmed, reversed, or remanded.

Opinions can take different forms, including majority, concurring, dissenting, per curiam, or unpublished opinions, depending on the court and the posture of the case.

Common Misconceptions About the Meaning of Opinion

A common misconception is that an opinion is just a judge’s personal view. In legal usage, it is a formal written statement grounded in the record and the law.

Another misconception is that every court ruling comes with a long opinion. Some decisions are brief orders, and some appellate decisions are issued without extensive written analysis.