How to Write a Case Analysis - The Complete Guide

Understand the Case or Question Assigned

The cases are assigned based on what group you are in, but each student will treat this as an individual assignment. You must write and submit an individual paper. Your response should be well rounded and analytical and should not just provide a conclusion or an opinion without explaining the reason for the choice. For full credit, you need to use the material from the week's lectures, text, and/or discussions when responding to the questions. Post your case analysis in the corresponding week's assignment dropbox. The case assignments are posted below in the Case Assignments. (Short papers will lose significant points!!). All cases will automatically be submitted to Turnitin. Your paper should follow the case format (below) and include a summary of the relevant facts, the law, judicial opinion, etc. Research the case using the case citation in the DeVry Library under databases (select - HeinOnline), FindLaw.com, and other legal sources. Research the parties and circumstances of the case itself. Utilize the case format below. Case Analysis Format Read and understand the case or question assigned. Show your Analysis and Reasoning and make it clear you understand the material. Be sure to incorporate the concepts of the chapter we are studying to show your reasoning. Dedicate at least one heading to each following outline topic: Parties [Identify the plaintiff and the defendant] Facts [Summarize only those facts critical to the outcome of the case] Procedure [What was the outcome in the lower court(s)? Who brought the appeal?] Issue [Note the central question or questions on which the case turns] Explain the applicable law(s). Do some research on the laws cited in the case. Holding [How did the court resolve the issue(s)? Who won?] Reasoning [Explain the logic that supported the court's decision] Legal research should include something about the parties or other interesting related area. Show something you have discovered about the case, parties, or other important elements from your own research. Be sure this is obvious and adds value beyond the legal reasoning of the case. Must have quality in terms of substance, form, grammar, and context. Be entertaining! Use excellent visual material Wrap up with a Conclusion. This should summarize the key aspects of the decision and your recommendations on the court's ruling.