Abstract

Semiotics, Analogical Legal Reasoning, And The Cf. Citation: Getting Our Signals Uncrossed

Ira P. Robbins
American University, Washington College of Law

Duke Law Journal, Vol. 48, p. 1043, 1999

Abstract:
The Bluebook's introductory citation signals are essential to effective legal discourse. The choice of signal can influence not only the interpretation of cited cases, but also the path of law. In this Article, Professor Ira Robins examines one commonly used signal: the cf. After exploring its semiotic function, he details the multitude of ways in which this signal has been used and misused. He argues that lawyers' and judges' careless use of the cf. leads to confusing and often incoherent developments in the law, and concludes by proposing a precise working definition for this irksome, but potentially powerful, citation signal.

Keywords: Semiotics, Signal, Legal Reasoning, Bluebook, Common Law, Introductory Signals, Legal Citation

JEL Classifications: K10, K19, K40, K41

Accepted Paper Series

Date posted: January 31, 2007 ; Last revised: January 31, 2007

Suggested Citation

Robbins, Ira P., Semiotics, Analogical Legal Reasoning, And The Cf. Citation: Getting Our Signals Uncrossed. Duke Law Journal, Vol. 48, p. 1043, 1999. Available at SSRN: http://ssrn.com/abstract=960471

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Contact Information

Ira P. Robbins (Contact Author)

American University, Washington College of Law ( email )

4801 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.
Washington, DC 20016
United States
202-274-4235 (Phone)
202-274-4130 (Fax)