Cite Legal Meaning and Definition

Here is a simplified definition of the legal term Cite.

Cite (verb)

1. In a legal context, to 'cite' means to refer to past legal cases, laws, or official documents to support a current case or argument. This helps the court determine how the law has been interpreted in similar situations, and assists in making a legal decision consistent with prior rulings.

2. 'Cite' also refers to the act of a court issuing a notice to a party in a legal proceeding, requiring their appearance in court at a specific time and date. This notice, or citation, can be applied to various types of cases such as minor offenses, civil cases, or criminal cases.

3. Generally, to 'cite' can also mean to quote words or passages that have been previously spoken or written by another person.