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Simple English definitions for legal terms
index of authorities
Read a random definition: quoad sacra
A quick definition of index of authorities:
An index of authorities is a list of sources that are mentioned in a book or legal document. It is usually organized alphabetically and may have separate sections for cases, statutes, and treatises. Another name for this list is a table of authorities or table of cases.
A more thorough explanation:
An index of authorities is a list of sources that are cited in a book or legal brief. It is usually arranged alphabetically and may have subcategories for cases, statutes, and treatises. This index helps readers locate the sources that were used to support the arguments or ideas presented in the book or brief.
- Case: Roe v. Wade, 410 U.S. 113 (1973)
- Statute: Americans with Disabilities Act, 42 U.S.C. § 12101 et seq.
- Treatise: Black's Law Dictionary (10th ed. 2014)
In the example above, the index of authorities includes a case (Roe v. Wade), a statute (Americans with Disabilities Act), and a treatise (Black's Law Dictionary). Each source is listed with its proper citation format, which includes the title, author, edition, and year of publication. This allows readers to easily find and reference the sources that were used in the book or brief.