What does dissent refer to in a judicial context?

Dissent, in a judicial context, specifically refers to the opinion expressed by a judge who disagrees with the majority opinion of the court. This dissenting opinion provides an alternative viewpoint on the legal reasoning or interpretation of the law regarding the case at hand. It serves a significant purpose in the judicial process; it not only outlines the judge's differing perspective but also can influence future legal decisions, inform public debate, and encourage further discussion on the issues involved.

The other options do not accurately capture the essence of a dissenting opinion. A majority opinion reflects the collective view of the judges who agree on the final decision, while a statement of a case's facts provides an overview of what transpired without expressing differing legal arguments. Lastly, the formal judgment represents the court's decision in the case rather than an individual's dissenting view. Therefore, the distinction of dissent as a unique and critical component of judicial opinions is what makes this choice the correct answer.