Define: Slip Opinion

A slip opinion is a preliminary version of a court’s written decision or judgment. It is typically released shortly after a court’s ruling and provides a summary of the court’s reasoning and conclusions.

Slip opinions are often made available on the court’s website or through legal databases. They can also be obtained from legal libraries or through subscription services.

While slip opinions are not considered binding legal authority, they can still be persuasive in subsequent legal proceedings. Final published opinions, however, carry more weight as binding precedent.

In general, it is advisable to cite the final published version of an opinion rather than a slip opinion. However, if the final version is not yet available, you may cite the slip opinion with a proper citation indicating its provisional nature.

The time it takes for a slip opinion to be published can vary depending on the court and the complexity of the case. It can range from a few weeks to several months.

While slip opinions can provide valuable insights into a court’s reasoning, it is always recommended to consult the final published version of an opinion for accurate and complete information.

Slip opinions are typically available for cases heard by appellate courts, such as federal circuit courts or state supreme courts. They may not be available for lower courts or certain specialized courts.

Yes, slip opinions can be modified or overturned through subsequent court proceedings. It is important to stay updated on any developments or changes to a slip opinion’s status.

While slip opinions are not considered binding precedent, they can still be cited and relied upon as persuasive authority in legal arguments.

Slip opinions may not be readily available for historical cases, especially those predating the digital era. However, some legal archives or libraries may have physical copies or digitized versions of slip opinions from older cases.