Ibid: Overview, definition, and example
What is ibid?
Ibid is a Latin abbreviation of ibidem, meaning “in the same place.” In legal writing and academic citations, it is used in footnotes or endnotes to refer to the same source as the one immediately preceding it. While not typically used in contracts themselves, understanding ibid is helpful when reading legal memos, scholarly texts, or legal research that contains repetitive citations.
Why is ibid important?
Ibid helps streamline citations by avoiding unnecessary repetition. Instead of restating the full citation over and over, ibid allows writers to reference the same source efficiently. This makes legal documents and academic work easier to read and more concise. However, misuse of ibid—for example, when the previous citation references a different source—can cause confusion or reduce the credibility of the document.
Understanding ibid through an example
A legal memo cites a case in footnote 4. Footnote 5 also refers to the same case and same page. Instead of repeating the full citation, the author simply writes “Ibid.” If footnote 6 cites the same case but a different page, it may say “Ibid, at 102.” This allows readers to follow the references without unnecessary duplication.
Example of an ibid usage
Here’s how ibid may appear in a legal memorandum or research paper:
"4. Smith v. Jones, 456 U.S. 789, 794 (1982).
5. Ibid.
6. Ibid., at 796."
Conclusion
Ibid is a shorthand citation tool that reduces repetition in legal writing and academic work. While not used in contract language itself, knowing how it works can help you read legal references more efficiently. If you're reviewing documents with footnotes, understanding ibid will help you follow citations without getting lost in repetition.
This article contains general legal information and does not contain legal advice. Cobrief is not a law firm or a substitute for an attorney or law firm. The law is complex and changes often. For legal advice, please ask a lawyer.