TLR uses Westlaw versions of state statutes; thus, TLR cites to the “West” version of each state’s code, as shown in Bluebook Table T1.3. This preference differs from the Bluebook rule.
B.2(a): Statutory Compilations
TLR always cites to the version of the code published by West and you must always indicate this in the year parenthetical regardless of whether or not the Bluebook indicates that “West” is included in the publication-date parenthetical. To verify that you are citing the statute correctly, refer to Bluebook Table T1.3. Each state has a section called “Statutory compilations.”
| YES: | (West 2011) |
| NO: | (2011) |
Note that some states have a special statutory compilation for the West version of the statutes.
- For example, see Alaska on Bluebook page 249.
- Bluebook says to cite to Alaska Stat.
- Note that the first listing under statutory compilations is for Alaska Stat. published by LexisNexis.
- Follow the format for West’s Alaska Statutes Annotated, which requires the “Ann.” To be added to the citation.
B.2(b): Year
1. Generally
Most state statutes on Westlaw have a blue link titled “Currentness” under the section number and title of the provision.
1. If this link is there, click on it. The link will then navigate to the bottom of the statute where it will say something like, “Current through 2011 acts” or “Current through 2010 legislation.”
- Unless an exception applies, this is the proper year to be used in the date-publication parenthetical.
- So, (West 2011) or (West 2010) would be the parenthetical.
2. If the statute does not have a blue “Currentness” link, then simply scroll down to the bottom of the statute. There should still be a statement telling you when the statute is current through.
- Unless an exception applies, this is the proper year to be used in the date-publication parenthetical.
2. Exception—Repeal and Invalidation. (Also applies to U.S.C.)
If the statute was repealed by another statute or invalidated by a case, follow Bluebook Rule 12.7.1–12.7.2.
3. Exception—Amendment and Prior History. (Also applies to U.S.C.)
If the statute was repealed by another statute or invalidated by a case, follow Bluebook Rule 12.7.1–12.7.2.