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Cross-reference (statutory)
Definition
A provision in one section of a statute that directs the reader to another section, incorporating some or all of that other section's requirements. Disputes often arise about exactly how much of the referenced section is incorporated — particularly when the referenced section was written with different parties in mind.
Examples
- •Section 2255(h) says motions 'must be certified as provided in Section 2244,' creating a cross-reference whose scope is at the heart of this case.