How to Cite Federal Rules of Civil Procedure Bluebook
The Bluebook is a comprehensive legal citation guide used widely in the United States to ensure consistency and clarity in legal writing. When citing the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure (FRCP) within legal documents, it is crucial to follow the Bluebook’s guidelines to maintain professionalism and accuracy. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to cite the FRCP using the Bluebook format.
Firstly, it is essential to understand the basic structure of a Bluebook citation for the FRCP. The format typically includes the rule number, the volume and part of the Federal Rules, and the page number where the rule can be found. Here is an example of how to cite a specific rule:
Example: FRCP Rule 12(b)(6), 28 U.S.C. § 1332(c)(1).
In this example, “FRCP Rule 12(b)(6)” refers to Rule 12(b)(6) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure. The “28 U.S.C. § 1332(c)(1)” indicates the corresponding United States Code section that governs the subject matter of the rule.
Now, let’s break down the components of a Bluebook citation for the FRCP:
1. Rule Number: Begin with the specific rule number you wish to cite, followed by the word “Rule.” For example, “FRCP Rule 12(b)(6).”
2. Volume and Part: Next, include the volume and part of the Federal Rules where the rule is located. The FRCP is part of the Federal Rules of Procedure, which is typically listed as “Volume 5.” The part number can be found in the table of contents of the Federal Rules. For example, “FRCP Rule 12(b)(6), 28 U.S.C. § 1332(c)(1).”
3. Page Number: Finally, provide the page number where the rule is located in the Federal Rules. This can be found by flipping through the volume or using an online version of the rules. For example, “FRCP Rule 12(b)(6), 28 U.S.C. § 1332(c)(1).” (Note: The page number is not included in the citation if it is the first rule in the section.)
Remember that when citing the FRCP, it is important to use the correct abbreviation and format. The Bluebook provides additional guidelines for specific situations, such as when citing a particular subsection or paragraph within a rule. Always refer to the Bluebook for any questions or special cases.
In conclusion, citing the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure using the Bluebook format is essential for maintaining consistency and professionalism in legal writing. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that your citations are accurate and adhere to the standards set by the Bluebook.
