CLSA Advisory Opinions

The Canon Law Society of America (CLSA) publishes annually Roman Replies and CLSA Advisory Opinions for canonists and those seeking a clearer understanding of the praxis legis of the Catholic Church. The combination of these two services, begun in 1984, continues to serve as useful resources for those involved in the application of canonical discipline.

CLSA Advisory Opinions is a collection of brief and practical canonical opinions authored by members of the CLSA on a broad spectrum of canonical issues. Volumes are published annually alongside Roman Replies, a selection of responses received from Vatican offices on various canonical issues.

Advisory Opinion Online Index

The CLSA's development of an online index intends to serve canonists and other researchers looking for practical canonical opinions. This index includes all published opinions, grouped by canon number; opinions regarding multiple canons are listed under each canon.

Each opinion is available through the CLSA online store, in the context of its originally published volume, either in print or electronic format (as a downloadable .pdf file). CLSA members may download these files for free and receive discounts on printed volumes.

Below are links that contain all published opinions.

Please note: The opinions carry only the weight of the persons named as authors. They do not represent the opinion of the diocese or institution with which the author is affiliated nor of the Canon Law Society of America. Advisory opinions are not authentic interpretations of the law, but reflect the scholarly and practical insights of the contributors.