The Union Lime Company v. Chicago and Northwestern Railway Company case in 1913 revolved around a dispute over freight charges. The Union Lime Company sued the railway company for allegedly charging excessive rates on lime shipments, arguing that these rates were discriminatory and violated the Interstate Commerce Act. The railway company countered by stating that their rates were justifiable due to the high cost of handling lime as it was a hazardous material which required special care during transportation. However, upon review, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Union Lime Co., finding that there was no substantial evidence presented by the railroad to justify its higher rate for transporting lime compared to other commodities like cement or plaster.

In the dissenting opinion for Union Lime Company v. Chicago and Northwestern Railway Company, it was argued that the majority's decision to uphold a lower court ruling in favor of the railway company was incorrect. The dissenting justices believed that there were significant errors made by the trial court which should have led to a reversal of its judgment. They contended that evidence presented at trial showed clear negligence on part of the railroad company leading to damages suffered by Union Lime Company, contrary to what had been determined by both lower courts and now affirmed by Supreme Court’s majority opinion. Furthermore, they disagreed with how certain laws pertaining to liability and negligence were interpreted and applied in this case - specifically those related to duties owed between parties involved in transportation contracts like one at hand here.