What is a parallel citation?

A parallel citation refers to a reference to the same case or statute published in multiple sources. This is an important concept in legal research because many cases and statutes are reported in more than one legal reporter or database. By providing multiple citations, legal professionals can ensure that they are referencing the most accessible version of a case for their audience, which may prefer different legal publications. This practice enhances the credibility and thoroughness of legal documents by acknowledging the various sources where the law can be found.

Legal professionals often use parallel citations to guide readers to different excerpts or interpretations of the law, offering a comprehensive view. Other options, such as summarizing a court's decision or identifying a plaintiff, do not capture the essence of what a parallel citation is, which is about referencing multiple versions of the same legal material.