Lawyers use the following FIRAC analytic structure to dissect a case into pieces:
Facts--the important facts of the case.
Issue--What the parties are asking the court to decide. This is usually stated in a sentence that begins with the word, "Whether . . . "
Rule: The law(s) and prior cases that the court will apply to the facts of this case to make a decision.
Analysis--The discussion of the above (facts, issue and rule) that reveal the reasoning of the court.
Conclusion--The final decision or "holding" of the court.
Assignment:
What was the issue before the court and how did the court resolve it?
