Parallel citation

Definition

Parallel citation refers to the practice of citing a legal case using more than one source or reporter system to provide a fuller reference. This is especially important in legal writing, as different jurisdictions or systems may publish the same case in different reporters. Using parallel citations helps ensure that readers can locate the case across various reporting systems, enhancing accessibility and clarity in legal documents.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parallel citations are commonly used in jurisdictions where multiple reporters may publish the same case, such as state and federal systems.
2. Different courts may have their own citation styles, which can lead to variations in how parallel citations are formatted.
3. Citing a case in more than one reporter helps legal practitioners avoid confusion about case authority and enhances the credibility of their arguments.
4. In many cases, one citation will be to the official reporter while another citation might refer to an unofficial reporter that provides additional context or commentary.
5. Legal writing standards often require parallel citations to be included in briefs, motions, and other legal documents to ensure thoroughness.

Review Questions

• Why is it important to use parallel citations in legal writing?
  • Using parallel citations is crucial because it allows readers to locate a legal case in multiple reporting systems. Different jurisdictions may have their own official reporters, so by providing several citations, legal writers ensure that their audience can find the case regardless of which reporter they have access to. This practice enhances clarity and avoids potential misunderstandings about case authority.
• How do parallel citations relate to the different types of reporters used in legal citation?
  • Parallel citations highlight the existence of multiple reporters that may publish the same judicial opinion. Each reporter may serve a specific jurisdiction or purpose; for example, official reporters provide authoritative versions of cases while unofficial reporters might include additional commentary. By citing a case in various reporters, writers acknowledge these differences and assist readers in navigating through them for comprehensive understanding.
• Evaluate the impact of not using parallel citations when referencing legal cases in professional documents.
  • Not using parallel citations can significantly hinder the accessibility and reliability of legal references in professional documents. Without these citations, readers may struggle to locate pertinent cases if they are only familiar with certain reporters. This omission could lead to misinterpretations of legal authority or even undermine the credibility of the writer's arguments. Ultimately, failing to include parallel citations could affect the overall effectiveness of legal writing and its ability to communicate essential information clearly.

Related terms

legal citation: The formal way of referring to legal documents, including cases, statutes, and regulations, which allows others to locate those documents easily.

reporter: A collection of judicial opinions from courts, usually organized by jurisdiction or court type, where cases are published for reference.

Bluebook: A widely used style guide in the United States that provides rules for legal citation, including how to format parallel citations.