How to Cite a State Law in APA Style
When writing academic papers or conducting legal research, it is essential to properly cite state laws using the APA style. Citing state laws ensures that your work is accurate, transparent, and complies with academic integrity standards. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to cite state laws in APA style, based on information from reputable sources such as the Wake Forest University Library, Purdue OWL, and Rasmussen University.
Format for Citing a State Law in APA Style
The format for citing a state law in APA style is similar to citing a federal law. The general template for reference list entry is as follows:
Reference List: Name of Act, Title Source § Section Number (Year). URL.
Parenthetical Citation: (Name of Act, Year).
It is important to note that the URL is optional and may not be available for all state laws. Additionally, the year in the parenthetical citation refers to the year of the law.
Elements of a State Law Citation
When citing a state law, the following elements should be included in the reference list entry:
- Name of the Act: Provide the name or title of the state law. If the law has an official name, use that. Otherwise, use a descriptive title.
- Title, Source, and Section Number of the Statute: Include the title, source (abbreviated according to the Bluebook), and section number of the statute. The title refers to the specific topic or subject matter covered by the law.
- Year of Publication: Indicate the year in which the law was published or enacted. This is important as laws may be passed in one year but published in a different year.
- URL (Optional): If available, include the URL of the state law. This allows readers to access the law directly.
Variations in State Law Citations
It is crucial to be aware that state statutes may be organized differently in each state, and citation formats may vary. Some states organize their statutes by title, some by section number, and some use both. To ensure accurate citation, consult the specific state’s code or legal resources to determine the correct citation format for that state.
Sources
- Wake Forest University Library. (Accessed 2024). Legal Sources – APA 7th ed. Style Guide. Retrieved from: https://guides.zsr.wfu.edu/c.php?g=1014307&p=7346633
- Purdue OWL® – Purdue University. (Accessed 2024). APA Legal References. Retrieved from: https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/research_and_citation/apa_style/apa_formatting_and_style_guide/apa_legal%20references%20.html
- Rasmussen University. (Accessed 2024). How do I cite a state statute or law in the APA style? – FAQS. Retrieved from: https://rasmussen.libanswers.com/faq/41374
By following the guidelines and using proper citations, you can accurately reference state laws in your academic writing, ensuring credibility and transparency in your research. Remember to consult the specific state’s code or legal resources for variations in citation styles.
FAQs
How to Cite a State Law in APA Style
What is the format for citing a state law in APA style?
The format for citing a state law in APA style follows a general template:
Reference List: Name of Act, Title Source § Section Number (Year). URL.
Parenthetical Citation: (Name of Act, Year).
Remember that the URL is optional and the year refers to the year of the law.
What elements should be included in a state law citation in APA style?
When citing a state law, include the following elements in the reference list entry:
- Name of the Act
- Title, Source, and Section Number of the Statute
- Year of Publication
- URL (optional)
Are there variations in state law citations?
Yes, state statutes may be organized differently in each state, and citation formats may vary. Some states use titles to organize their statutes, while others use section numbers. It is important to consult the specific state’s code or legal resources to determine the correct citation format for that state.
How should I cite a state law in the text of my paper?
In the text of your paper, use a parenthetical citation format: (Name of Act, Year). Place this citation after the relevant information or quote from the state law.
Do I need to include the URL when citing a state law?
Including the URL of a state law is optional. If the law is available online and you believe it would be helpful for readers to access the law directly, you can include the URL in the reference list entry.
Where can I find the specific state law I need to cite?
To find the specific state law you need to cite, consult the official state code or legal resources. These resources are typically available through government websites, legal databases, or law libraries.
Can I use abbreviations for the titles and sources of state laws?
Yes, you can use abbreviations for the titles and sources of state laws. However, it is important to ensure that the abbreviations you use are consistent and widely recognized.
How do I handle a state law with multiple sections?
When citing a state law with multiple sections, include the relevant section number(s) in the reference list entry, following the format: Title Source § Section Number. For example, if citing section 3 of Title X of a state law, it would be formatted as: Title X § 3.
Remember to consult the specific APA guidelines and the official state code or legal resources for accurate and up-to-date information on citing state laws in APA style.