What is a reference to the location of a case in legal publications called?

A reference to the location of a case in legal publications is called a citation. Citations serve a crucial role in legal writing as they enable readers to locate the original sources being referenced. A citation typically includes key information such as the name of the case, the volume number, the reporter where the case is published, and the page number, along with the year of the decision. This structured format ensures that legal professionals can efficiently find and verify precedents and legal principles relevant to their work or research.

In contrast, the other terms presented relate to different concepts within the legal field. For instance, a challenge for cause pertains to the process of contesting the eligibility of a juror, the clerk of court refers to the administrative officer in charge of maintaining court records, and a charge usually references the judge's instructions to the jury on the law pertinent to the case at hand. Understanding these distinctions enhances one's grasp of legal terminology and its application within legal contexts.