Glossary

  • Opinion of the Court

    An opinion joined by a majority of the justices explaining the legal basis for the Court’s decision and regarded as binding precedent in future decisions.

  • Opinions

    The formal, written result of a case by a judge or judicial panel which resolves a legal dispute.

  • Oral Advocates

    An attorney who presents legal briefs and arguments at an appellate level.

  • Oratory

    Formal speaking in public.

  • Oratory

    formal speaking in public.

  • Passed the bar

    A lawyer’s successful completion of all the requirements to practice law. These requirements have changed throughout history.

  • Patriotic Society

    A political club with influence in the state of Virginia.

  • Per curiam

    refers to a (generally brief) decision attributable to an entire court, rather than to a specific judge. A per curiam opinion can resolve cases promptly, often without oral argument.

  • Peripheral

    relating to or situated on the edge of something

  • Persecution

    the cruel and unfair treatment of a person or group, especially because of their religious beliefs