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EXPLANATION: "ABOVE" vs "SUPRA"

COMPARISON

"Supra" means "Above". So, why use "Supra"?

Reason #1: "Supra" has a specific legal meaning, while "Above" can be ambiguous;

 Supra always means a prior part of a written text (ie, "above this paragraph").
 Above usually means a prior part of a written text (ie, "above this paragraph").
 However, sometimes, Above means a higher court (ie, "the appellate court").


Reason #2: "Supra" is a short/simple word (compared to other latin terms);

Reason #3: Using "Supra" will indicate that you are willing to fight to the end.
 Fighting to the end ≈ going through the appellate process.

EXAMPLE A

Example A (An Ambiguous use of "Above"):

"Fact 555: Plaintiff had blah blah blah..."
"Law: The court above says that Plaintiff deserves X-Y-Z (see Fact 555, above)."


Analysis:
This passage used the word "above" twice in one sentence. The first time it meant an appellate court; and the second time it meant a previous portion of the same document.

Problem:
Ambiguity.
Moreover, every subsequent citation of that passage will increase confusion.

Solution:
Use "supra" instead (see Example B, infra)

EXAMPLE B

Example B (Clear use of "Above" and "Supra"):

"Fact 555: Plaintiff had blah blah blah..."
"Law: The court above says that Plaintiff deserves X-Y-Z (see Fact 555, supra)."


Analysis:
This passage cites itself; while making clear that its legal application comes from a higher court.

Benefit:
Clear. Simple.
Both the appellate court and the trial court will understand what you're saying.

...POINTS & THINGS...

Congratulations! You're now Booked Up on the differences/uses of the terms "Above" and "Supra"!

TBD recommends using "Supra" in your legal writing (especially at the trial court level)!

Please get the justice you deserve.

Sincerely,



www.TextBookDiscrimination.com
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