An opinion that disagrees with the majority's decision and its reasoning is called what?

• A. Concurring
• B. Dissenting
• C. Majority
• D. Remand

Answer: (B)

An opinion that disagrees with the majority's decision and its reasoning is a dissenting opinion. In appellate courts, the majority sets forth the ruling and the reasons for it. A dissenting opinion is written by judges who would decide differently and who explain their alternate reasoning and legal standards. It doesn’t change the outcome in this case, but it records the disagreement and can influence future cases or reforms. By comparison, a concurring opinion agrees with the outcome but offers different or additional reasons; the majority is the opinion representing the court’s decision, and remand means sending the case back to a lower court for further action.