It looks like you're using Internet Explorer 11 or older. This website works best with modern browsers such as the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge. If you continue with this browser, you may see unexpected results.
Overview of the California court system with links to more information.
How to Read a Legal Opinion: A Guide for New Law Students
Prof. Orin S. Kerr wrote this helpful, brief account of the structure and conventions of U.S. judicial opinions for 11 The Green Bag 2d 51 (2007). His aim: "to help new law students prepare for the first few weeks of class."