How do I accurately use and cite case law?
Hey all,
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
Reply 1
Emski9
OP
4
That is really helpful, thank you SO much. I'm terrified of getting an awful result, need to get it right!
Reply 2
Original post
by Emski9Hey all,
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
Hello,
Because of what can sometimes be really restrictive word limits, I would advise that you only include the key legal principle unless the facts are necessary for context or critical analysis.
I hope this helps. If you have any further questions please do let me know.
Charlie
Law LLB Student
Reply 3
Original post
by Emski9Hey all,
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
are you familiar with oscola citations?
Reply 4
Original post
by Emski9Hey all,
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
Law newbie here. I am currently completing my first law essay, and was wondering if I need to explain a case when I cite it, or if it is accepted that it is self-explanatory.
For example - would I say:
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result, as demonstrated in R v Example
OR
Can I simply say
Legal causation is established if the act is a substantial and operating cause of the result.¹
This should be your referencing bible:
OSCOLA Quick Reference Guide
Quick Reply
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