Charles' or Charles's?

[californiaburrito]

I have just received some sharp criticism for using Charles's (names changed to protect the innocent). Obviously, I have consulted other reputable sources but I understand/appreciate/admire the strongly held beliefs of the Mumsnet pedant's and I am now seeking your advice.

So was I right or was I wrong?

[soggyweetabix]

I understand the correct form to be Charles', but I don't think it ever looks right and so I usually add and extra 's' for good measure!

[NickNacks]

Both are correct.

[Curlgurl]

I think both are correct but Charles' is generally used as Charles's looks messy

[LurkingQuietly]

Both are correct as long as you're consistent. I always use Charles'.

[BoGrainger]

I would always add the 's' because that how I say it. I wouldn't say 'Is that Charles coat?' I would say 'Is that Charleses coat?' Likewise James's and Giles's etc

[californiaburrito]

Wow, you're fast!

I have chosen to use Charles's to mimic the pronunciation. I also have to contend with a lot of nicknames like Roz's or Becks's so it just made more sense. sorry, if that's a grammar dripfeed I think that the person concerned with Charles is probably consistently Charles' themselves and therefore not too open to my view.

[Fallstar]

Agree that either is correct as long as you're consistent. I would always use Charles's, James's etc.

[DoinItFine]

Both are correct.

I prefer Charles's.

It matches the clearer pronunciation.

[birchygoo]

Both are correct

[BikeRunSki]

Both are correct. I take my inspiration from Bridget Jones's Diary.