What distinguishes a dissenting opinion?

A dissenting opinion is characterized as one that disagrees with the majority opinion in a court case. When a court reaches its decision, the judges or justices who do not agree with the majority's conclusion write a dissenting opinion to express their different viewpoint. This is significant because it provides an alternative perspective on the case and can influence future legal interpretations or highlight issues that may not be addressed by the majority opinion.

By articulating the reasons for their disagreement, dissenting opinions also contribute to the legal discourse surrounding the case, allowing for a fuller exploration of the issues. This can be particularly important in cases that set precedents, as dissenting opinions may later inform future rulings or shifts in legal interpretation.