Legal news covers the latest developments in law and practice. It can include federal and state court decisions, case settlements, verdicts, legal theories, regulation, legislation, corporate law issues, corporate transactions, and more. It may also cover judicial appointments, new laws or amendments, and executive actions.
A legal opinion is a formal document lawyers issue to their clients in writing that expresses their view on the legality of a transaction or matter. Opinion letters are often a cost-effective way for firms to provide clients with the legal analysis they need without hiring full-time lawyers. Opinion letters should be based on the firm’s experience and knowledge of the law. They should be clear, specific and backed up by legal theory, and they should recommend action.
A legal blog (often called a “blawg”) is a website that provides regular updates on a particular topic area of the law. These blogs are often written by attorneys or legal scholars in the field and focus on current developments, case studies or opinions. These websites often require a subscription or have limited free access. Many large law firms and major academic institutions maintain their own blawgs. In addition, there are a number of independent law firm and legal scholar blogs that cover various topics. For example, the SCOTUS blog provides comprehensive coverage of all cases heard on the merits at the Supreme Court and significant petitions for certiorari.