Roe v. Wade [1973]
410 U.S. 113 (1973) · Supreme Court of the United States · United States
Issue
Did the Constitution protect a right to choose abortion under the Due Process Clause?
Held
The Court recognized such a right; the holding was later overruled by Dobbs.
Exam use
Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.
Summary
Essential historical precedent for substantive due process and reproductive rights debates.
Facts
Issue
Did the Constitution protect a right to choose abortion under the Due Process Clause?
Held
The Court recognized such a right; the holding was later overruled by Dobbs.
Ratio Decidendi
Roe is no longer controlling federal constitutional law after Dobbs.
Reasoning
Essay-Ready Explanation Generator
Version 1 of 4
Reference to Roe v. Wade (410 U.S. 113 (1973)) strengthens a constitutional law answer because the case reflects the principle that Roe is no longer controlling federal constitutional law after Dobbs. Applied to a problem question, the case should be used after identifying the issue as Did the Constitution protect a right to choose abortion under the Due Process Clause? The stronger essay move is to connect the material facts to the court's holding, then explain whether the present facts support the same conclusion or justify distinguishing the authority.
Significance
Related Cases
- Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization597 U.S. 215 (2022)
Exam Tips
Revision Checklist
- Name the issue before discussing facts so the marker sees the legal question immediately.
- State the holding in one sentence, then use the ratio to explain why the court reached that result.
- Use the citation and jurisdiction to show why this authority matters for the problem you are answering.
- Pair this case with one supporting or contrasting authority if the question tests limits, policy, or exceptions.