Reasoning and Procedural Consequences

Reasoning: This is the court’s explanation of how it went from its issue to its result/holding. This is usually
the longest part of the brief. It’s the part where the justice discusses the Constitution, cases precedent,
and/or statutes. Discuss each issue in a separate paragraph. Follow the RAC format discussed in Chapter
1: rule/law, analysis/applicant, conl=clusion for each issue.
Procedural Consequences: Does this appeals court agree with the trial court’s decision? Look for the
“magic” words: affirmed, reversed, modified, and/or remanded. This part is usually just one sentence long.