Chief Justice Traynor and Choice of Law Theory

Chief Justice Traynor broke new ground in many areas of conflict of laws; his influence was greatest, however, in the development of choice of law theory. Several writers have noted Justice Traynor\u27s reliance in this area on Professor Brainerd Currie\u27s governmental interest analysis. This Article discusses Justice Traynor\u27s contribution to choice of law theory. The Article first examines the early development of his approach as exhibited in his first five choice of law opinions. It then discusses Professor Currie\u27s governmental interest analysis theory and the impact it had on Justice Traynor\u27s views. The Article recounts the collaboration between Traynor and Currie and the maturation of their respective approaches. It then discusses Justice Traynor\u27s refinement of his own theory after Professor Currie\u27s death. Finally, the Article evaluates Justice Traynor\u27s approach, concluding that it withstands critical scrutiny and endures as an outstanding contribution to choice of law theory