---
title: "Advisory Opinions Definition and Importance | Model Diplomat"
description: "An advisory opinion is a non-binding legal pronouncement by a court on a legal question. It's crucial for civil services and constitutional law in India."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/advisory-opinions"
---

[New](https://modeldiplomat.com/)

#

Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- An advisory opinion is a non-binding legal pronouncement by a court or tribunal on a question of law referred to it, rather than in a contentious dispute between parties.
- Are advisory opinions under Article 143 binding on the President or the courts?
- What is the difference between Article 143(1) and Article 143(2)?
- Which provisions confer advisory jurisdiction on the International Court of Justice?
- Name an instance where the Supreme Court declined a Presidential reference.?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

Go beyond the definition

## Research advisory opinions like a delegate

Model Diplomat's AI drafts position papers, speeches, and country research with real sources — built for MUN and politics students.

## Research it like a delegate

Research on modeldiplomat.com

## Ask a follow-up about advisory opinions

Open a cited briefing in Model Diplomat search — timelines, positions, and sources you can use in committee or exam answers.

[Start research on advisory opinions](https://modeldiplomat.com/search?q=Explain%20advisory%20opinions%20%E2%80%94%20key%20dates%2C%20actors%2C%20positions%2C%20and%20sources)

Example

In 1998 the President of India invoked Article 143 in the Third Judges Case reference, and the Supreme Court's advisory opinion entrenched the collegium system for judicial appointments.

Keep learning

## Go deeper than the definition

Lessons

[Key Conventions Dispute Settlement](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/lessons/exam-international-law-key-conventions-dispute-settlement)

Courses

[Exam International Law](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/courses/exam-international-law)

[Explore all Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams lessons](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services)[Test yourself with a quiz](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/quiz/civil-services)

## Take advisory opinions beyond the glossary

Ask the AI research engine built for diplomacy — get briefings, position papers, and speeches with sources you can cite in committee.