To Italicize or Not to Italicize: That is the Question (of Chicago Style)
So, you're writing a paper, and you've got this burning question: Do you italicize Supreme Court cases in Chicago style? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive into the wonderful world of citation.
The Great Italicization Debate
Let's get one thing straight: Chicago style is not a spectator sport. It's a contact sport, and the playing field is your paper. And when it comes to Supreme Court cases, the rules can be as clear as mud (or at least as clear as legal jargon).
The Short Answer: Generally, no, you don't italicize the full case name when you first cite it. However, when you abbreviate the case name later on, then yes, you do italicize it.
The Long Answer: Inhale deeply. It's a bit more complicated than that. The first time you mention a case, write it out in full, no italics. For example: Brown v. Board of Education. But when you're feeling lazy and want to shorten things, you can go ahead and italicize the abbreviated version. Like this: Brown.
But Wait, There's More!
Now, you might be thinking, "This is all well and good, but what about when I'm quoting directly from the case?" Ah, a good question, my friend. The answer? Quotation marks. That's right, wrap that juicy legal quote in quotation marks.
When in Doubt, Cite It Out
If you're still feeling lost in the legal labyrinth, don't panic. There's always the trusty Chicago Manual of Style to guide you. It's like the legal equivalent of a GPS. So, if you're unsure, consult your trusty guide.
Remember: Consistent citation is key. Once you pick a style, stick with it. And if you're working on a legal paper, consider consulting with a legal citation expert. They can help you navigate the treacherous waters of footnotes and bibliographies.
How-To Questions
How to cite a Supreme Court case in Chicago style?
- Write out the full case name the first time (e.g., Brown v. Board of Education).
- Abbreviate and italicize the case name in subsequent citations (e.g., Brown).
How to quote from a Supreme Court case?
- Use quotation marks around the direct quote.
- Provide proper citation information.
How to avoid citation errors?
- Consult the Chicago Manual of Style.
- Use a citation management tool.
- Seek guidance from a legal citation expert if needed.
How to stay sane while citing legal cases?
- Take breaks.
- Reward yourself with chocolate (or your preferred treat).
- Remember, it's just a paper. The world won't end if you make a mistake.
There you have it! You're now armed with the knowledge to conquer the world of Chicago style citations. Happy writing!
