Also of importance in the analysis of a landmark case is the court's reasoning or rationale for its holding. The landmark cases often contain concurring opinions. A concurrence is usually written when a judge agrees with the holding of the majority opinion but wants to explain their reasoning in a separate opinion. Concurring opinions carry no precedential authority, but are frequently cited in later judicial opinions. A dissenting opinion explains the reasoning of a judge who voted with the minority.
Dissents are often strongly worded and critical of the majority opinion.
Dissenting opinions carry no precedential authority, but often stimulate the reader to think critically about the reasoning of the majority opinion. Like concurring opinions, dissents are frequently cited in later cases. The disposition of a case is stated at the end of the opinion. Appeals court opinions typically affirm, reverse, vacate, or modify the opinion of the lower court. The appeals court may remand the case to the lower court if further proceedings are required.