If you need to cite a legal source, be sure to first consult the style guide assigned in your class (usually APA or MLA). The resources below can help you cite (or read citations for) materials that are beyond the scope of those guides.
The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation is widely used in the USA as a guide for citing legal materials. The APA, MLA, and Chicago style guides may defer to The Bluebook's rules for citing court decisions and legal briefs, executive orders, statutes and codes, and certain other kinds of legal documentation.
You can borrow a copy of The Bluebook from the Library's collection. If you live outside of San Diego, you can request that a copy be delivered to your home address or nearest campus using our Books Direct service.
The following books might also be helpful:
In California, documents filed in state courts can use either the California Style Manual or The Bluebook: A Uniform System of Citation.
A copy of the California Style Manual can be borrowed from the National University Library. If you live outside of San Diego, you can request that a copy be delivered to your home address or nearest campus using our Books Direct service.
We also suggest these online resources:
We like these style-specific resources:
If you need help reading/understanding citations, these resources will help:
The Redbook: A Manual on Legal Style is a style guide for legal writing (rather than citing). A copy of the The Redbook can be borrowed from the National University Library. If you live outside of San Diego, you can request that a copy be delivered to your home address or nearest campus using our Books Direct service.