CP Legal Research & Writing 2

Question 1

Which citation format is required by the California Style Manual for California state court documents?

Accepted Answer

California Style Manual format

Answer

California state courts require the California Style Manual format, while federal courts typically use the Bluebook.

Question 2

When using Westlaw's KeyCite, a red flag on a case indicates:

Accepted Answer

The case has been overruled or reversed

Answer

A red flag in KeyCite means the case has been negatively treated — overruled, reversed, or heavily criticized.

Question 3

A paralegal drafting a legal memorandum should place the IRAC analysis in which section?

Accepted Answer

Discussion

Answer

The Discussion section of a legal memo contains the IRAC (Issue, Rule, Analysis, Conclusion) analysis of each legal issue.

Question 4

Which of the following is an example of primary authority in California legal research?

Accepted Answer

A California Supreme Court opinion

Answer

A California Supreme Court opinion is primary authority because it is actual law created by a governmental body.

Question 5

When Shepardizing a case in Lexis, what does a yellow triangle warning signal mean?

Accepted Answer

The case has been distinguished or has some negative treatment

Answer

A yellow triangle in Shepard's indicates the case has some negative treatment, such as being distinguished, but has not been overruled.

(CP) California Certified Paralegal Practice Test