Legal Definitions - pincite

A pincite, also known as a pinpoint citation, is a specific reference within a larger legal source that directs the reader to an exact page, paragraph, section, or other precise location where the relevant information can be found. Instead of merely citing an entire document, a pincite helps someone quickly locate the precise part of the source that supports a particular statement or argument, saving time and ensuring accuracy.

Here are some examples illustrating the use of a pincite:

• Example 1: Citing a Court Opinion

  Imagine a lawyer is writing a brief and wants to refer to a specific statement made by the Supreme Court in a landmark case. Instead of just citing the entire case, they would use a pincite.

  Citation:Miranda v. Arizona, 384 U.S. 436, 444 (1966).

  Explanation: In this example, "384 U.S. 436" refers to the entire court case, found in volume 384 of the United States Reports starting on page 436. The "444" is the pincite, specifically directing the reader to page 444 of that volume, where the exact legal principle or statement being referenced is located. This allows anyone reading the brief to go directly to the precise page without having to read the entire opinion.

• Example 2: Referencing a Legal Treatise or Book

  Consider a law student researching a topic for a paper and finding a crucial explanation in a multi-volume legal encyclopedia or a specialized textbook.

  Citation: Charles Alan Wright & Arthur R. Miller, Federal Practice and Procedure § 1006, at 123 (3d ed. 2004).

  Explanation: Here, "Charles Alan Wright & Arthur R. Miller, Federal Practice and Procedure" identifies the authors and the title of the legal treatise. "§ 1006" points to a specific section within the work. The "at 123" is the pincite, indicating that the specific information the student is relying on can be found on page 123 of that particular section or volume. This level of detail ensures the reader can easily verify the information.

• Example 3: Pinpointing a Specific Part of a Statute or Regulation

  Suppose a government agency issues a new regulation, and a business needs to understand a very particular requirement within a lengthy document.

  Citation: 26 U.S.C. § 101(a)(1)(A)(ii).

  Explanation: While not a page number, this is a highly specific pincite within a statutory code. "26 U.S.C." refers to Title 26 of the United States Code (which covers Internal Revenue). "§ 101" designates a specific section, and "(a)(1)(A)(ii)" further narrows it down to a precise subsection, paragraph, subparagraph, and clause. This directs the reader to the exact provision of the law that applies, rather than requiring them to sift through the entire section or title.