Look Out Below! Fabulous Footnotes

In their latest article for Daily Journal, Manatt Appellate Partner and Litigation Associate discuss the role of footnotes in U.S. Supreme Court decisions, highlighting how they play a crucial role in shaping legal precedent, influencing future decisions and reflecting the ideological leanings of the justices. 

The article also discussed a particularly bold footnote from the California appellate opinion, People v. Arno, that has not necessarily changed the course of jurisprudence but has become famous among California practitioners. “Footnotes in Supreme Court decisions play a crucial role in shaping legal precedent, revealing the justices' internal dynamics, and influencing judicial philosophy by subtly conveying ideas, clarifying ambiguities, or signaling shifts in legal thinking,” the authors wrote. 

Daily Journal subscribers can read the full article .