Glossary
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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.
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Opinions
The formal, written result of a case by a judge or judicial panel which resolves a legal dispute.
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Oral Advocates
An attorney who presents legal briefs and arguments at an appellate level.
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Oratory
Formal speaking in public.
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Oratory
formal speaking in public.
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Passed the bar
A lawyer’s successful completion of all the requirements to practice law. These requirements have changed throughout history.
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Patriotic Society
A political club with influence in the state of Virginia.
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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.
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Peripheral
relating to or situated on the edge of something
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Persecution
the cruel and unfair treatment of a person or group, especially because of their religious beliefs