How do I cite a court case?
Answer
Court cases are typically cited in Bluebook format instead of in individual citation formats like MLA, APA, or Chicago style. Refer to the following to cite in Bluebook format:
Plaintiff v. Defendant, Case Number/Citation(print source where case is found), Court Page number (Decision date). URL is optional.
Brown v. Bd. of Education, 347 U.S. 483 (1954).
Although the Bluebook format is preferred for citing legal works, MLA does provide instructions for citing court cases for students not studying law, in particular. You can read MLA’s blog post detailing how to cite court cases and more at “Documenting Legal Works.”
If you need further help, contact a librarian.