The term “opinions,” as it pertains to the Supreme Court, encompasses various types of writings authored by the Justices. Understanding these different types of opinions is crucial to grasping what guides Supreme Court decisions.
The most widely recognized opinions are those issued in cases where the Court has heard oral arguments. Each of these opinions articulates the Court’s judgment and the rationale behind it. This includes the majority or principal opinion, alongside any concurring or dissenting opinions. All opinions related to a single case are published together, preceded by a syllabus prepared by the Reporter of Decisions summarizing the Court’s ruling. The Justice responsible for writing the majority or principal opinion often presents a summary of the opinion from the bench during a Court session.
Alt text: United States Supreme Court Justices seated in front of the Supreme Court building.
The Court also handles cases through per curiam opinions, which do not disclose the author’s identity. These opinions are frequently used to resolve cases summarily, often without oral arguments. However, per curiam opinions have occasionally been issued in cases where arguments were presented. This reflects the Court’s procedural flexibility and internal decision-making processes, which significantly impact what guides Supreme Court decisions.
In-chambers opinions are written by individual Justices to address applications from parties seeking interim relief. Examples of such relief include a stay of the judgment of a lower court, the vacation of a stay, or a temporary injunction. These opinions reflect the Justices’ role in managing cases and providing immediate, temporary legal solutions, influencing the overall trajectory of legal proceedings and demonstrating what guides Supreme Court decisions on urgent matters.
Alt text: Interior view of the United States Supreme Court courtroom, showcasing architectural details and symbolic elements.
Furthermore, Justices may also author opinions pertaining to the Court’s orders. For instance, they may write opinions dissenting from a denial of certiorari or concurring in such a denial. These opinions provide insight into the Justices’ individual perspectives on which cases the Court should hear, offering valuable commentary on what guides Supreme Court decisions regarding case selection and the direction of legal precedent.
Opinions are initially posted on the Supreme Court’s website in slip opinion format upon release. These slip opinions remain available until they are replaced by versions edited to conform to the standard publication style of the United States Reports. Updated PDF versions of the opinions, including preliminary prints and bound volumes of the United States Reports, are subsequently posted on the website as the publication process progresses. This process ensures accessibility and allows the public and legal community to follow what guides Supreme Court decisions and their evolution through the formal publication channels.
In summary, understanding the various types of opinions issued by the Supreme Court offers crucial insight into the factors that guide its decisions. From majority opinions to per curiam opinions, each type plays a significant role in shaping the law of the land. By examining these opinions, one can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the Supreme Court’s decision-making process.
