CASE BRIEF
[format,
with sample entry or explanation of what constitutes a complete entry]
Case Citation: use standardized format, as in
Wallace v. Jaffree,
472 U.S. 38 (1985)
I. Statement of the Case: In one paragraph, describe the particulars…what the original case was about (e.g. who was suing/prosecuting whom? for what? on what grounds or basis in law?)
II. Statement of Facts: Provide a narrative summary of all relevant facts. (You can use a chronological format, but do not simply list facts via bullet points. Tell a story.)
III. Result at
IV. Result on
Appeal: If there was an
intermediate-level appeal, was the trial/first court’s decision reversed or
affirmed? (If there were multiple appeals, detail each one separately.)
V. What is the issue presented for
this court to decide?: What
is the law and how is it to be applied in this case with these facts? (If there
are multiple issues, detail each one separately.)
VI. Arguments and Analysis of Appellant: Why is the trial/appellate court wrong and what legal theory or interpretation should have been applied?
VII. Arguments and Analysis of Appellee: What was the trial/appellate court's legal theory or application and why is that correct?
VIII. What is the holding and result now?: Explain exactly what this latest court decides is the proper interpretation of the law and the result of its application in this case.
IX. Policy Analysis: What public policies, principles or goals are furthered or hindered by this court's decision? What would be the effect if the court had chosen an alternative rule or application of that rule?
X. Personal Analysis: Do you agree with this court’s decision and the results? Explain why or why not. Include an explanation of what you would have done or decided differently if you had represented one of the parties or had been the judge.
[Adapted and revised from sample format suggested by
Professor B.G. Fines,