What is the main purpose of the headnoting system in legal publications?

The headnoting system in legal publications serves primarily to categorize cases by subject matter, making it easier for researchers, lawyers, and judges to locate relevant case law related to specific legal issues. Headnotes are concise, descriptive summaries that outline the key legal principles and topics addressed in the case, which helps users quickly identify cases that are pertinent to their research or legal argument. This organizational tool enhances accessibility and efficiency in legal research, as it assists in navigating through extensive volumes of case law.

While summarizing a case's outcome, providing direct quotes, or listing the parties involved might be important aspects of legal documentation, they do not serve the primary function of the headnoting system, which is to aid in categorizing and classifying cases for ease of reference.