A case is a written decision issued by a court, often referred to as a judicial opinion or decision. Cases set the precedent for the way laws are interpreted and applied. Cases are compiled in print sets called case reports or reporters. Federal courts and state courts use a similar hierarchical organization (lowest to highest): trial court, appellate court, highest court.
Most published case law comes from the Courts of Appeals (also called appellate courts) and the Supreme Court, because those opinions explain in detail why a panel of judges ruled a certain way. Some Federal District court cases are published and are available to researchers. Superior Court judges do not issue lengthy opinions; therefore, Superior Court cases generally are not available.
Find United States Cases:
Why search here? Use this database to find credible sources for topics in law, political science, and business. This is your source for law review articles and court cases.
What's included: Print and online journals, television and radio broadcasts, newswires and blogs; local, regional, national and international newspapers with deep archives; extensive legal sources for federal and state cases and
statutes, including U.S. Supreme Court decisions since 1790; and unparalleled business information on more than 80 million U.S. and international companies and more than 75 million executives
Find California Cases:
Why search here? Use this database to find credible sources for topics in law, political science, and business. This is your source for law review articles and court cases.
What's included: Print and online journals, television and radio broadcasts, newswires and blogs; local, regional, national and international newspapers with deep archives; extensive legal sources for federal and state cases and
statutes, including U.S. Supreme Court decisions since 1790; and unparalleled business information on more than 80 million U.S. and international companies and more than 75 million executives