What is a memorandum opinion in law?
Q: What is a memorandum opinion in law?
A: A memorandum opinion is an unpublished legal opinion that cannot be cited as precedent.
Q: How is a memorandum opinion formally defined?
A: A memorandum opinion is formally defined as a unanimous appellate opinion that succinctly states the decision of the court.
Q: Why is there often no elaboration or explanation in a memorandum opinion?
A: There is often no elaboration or explanation in a memorandum opinion because the decision either follows a well-known legal principle or it does not relate to a point of law.
Q: Is a memorandum opinion subject to appeal?
A: No, a memorandum opinion is not subject to appeal.
Q: What rules do memorandum opinions generally follow?
A: Memorandum opinions generally follow ordinary rules, including the application of precedent and the rule of stare decisis.
Q: Can a memorandum opinion be cited as precedent?
A: No, a memorandum opinion cannot be cited as precedent.
Q: What is the purpose of a memorandum opinion?
A: The purpose of a memorandum opinion is to succinctly state the decision of the court without elaboration or explanation if the decision follows a well-known legal principle or does not relate to a point of law.
