For Palsgraf v. Long Island R.R. Co., which is the correct shortened form to use in subsequent citations?

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Multiple Choice

For Palsgraf v. Long Island R.R. Co., which is the correct shortened form to use in subsequent citations?

The idea being tested is how to shorten a case name after the first full citation. In Bluebook style, once a case has been fully cited, you can refer to it again by a short form—the lead party’s name—so the writing stays concise and clear. For Palsgraf v. Long Island R.R. Co., the most accepted short form is the single surname of the lead plaintiff: Palsgraf. This keeps the reference unmistakable in context, is the standard practice for well-known cases, and avoids repeating the full caption or risking variation in spelling (like Railroad vs. R.R. Co.). The other options either echo too much of the full caption or introduce potential ambiguity, making them less practical for subsequent citations.

The idea being tested is how to shorten a case name after the first full citation. In Bluebook style, once a case has been fully cited, you can refer to it again by a short form—the lead party’s name—so the writing stays concise and clear.

For Palsgraf v. Long Island R.R. Co., the most accepted short form is the single surname of the lead plaintiff: Palsgraf. This keeps the reference unmistakable in context, is the standard practice for well-known cases, and avoids repeating the full caption or risking variation in spelling (like Railroad vs. R.R. Co.). The other options either echo too much of the full caption or introduce potential ambiguity, making them less practical for subsequent citations.

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