Unit 4
A case brief is an organized, written summary of the essential elements of a judicial opinion. They are useful tools to assist you in learning to analyze the law. To brief a case, you must first carefully read the assigned cases to gain an overall understanding of the facts of the case, the decision rendered by the court, and the reasoning behind the court’s decision. You will summarize what the justices said in the case and not give your analysis of the decision. Write your brief as if you’re trying to explain your case to a classmate.Address the following in 1,000–1,250 words:Read and brief the following cases:U.S. v. Bailey, 444 U.S. 394 (1980)Your case brief should follow the format below:Name of the case and citation: Title of the selected caseFacts of the case: Summary of the events, court timeline, evidence, and so forthLegal issues: Issues that were present in this caseCourt’s decision: The court’s decision and the conclusion to the caseRationale: The reasoning behind the final decision (Why did the court rule this way?)Dissenting opinions: Any disputing or disagreeing opinions with an explanation of what they were and why they were raisedBe sure to reference all sources using APA style.
