Making Use of Your Law Library

 

Law libraries are invaluable resources for self-represented persons, legal professionals, students,  and anyone else interested in law. These specialized libraries are stocked with a wealth of resources that can be instrumental in conducting legal research, understanding complex legal principles, and/or staying current with the latest legal developments. Here’s a basic guide to making the most of your law library.

 

Introduction to Law Libraries

 

Law libraries provide access to a vast array of legal information including case law, statutes, regulations, legal periodicals, treatises, and more. They are designed to support legal research in a comprehensive manner.

 

Traditionally, these resources were primarily in print form, but today's law libraries offer a blend of both print and digital materials.

 

Resources Available at a Law Library

 

Primary Law Materials:

 

• • Statutes and Legislation: Collections of federal and state statutes, legislative history, and session laws.
  • Case Law Reporters: Volumes of reported cases from various jurisdictions.
  • Regulatory Materials: Regulations and decisions from federal and state agencies.

 

Secondary Source Materials:

 

• • Legal Encyclopedias: Provide summaries of legal principles, often with references to primary law sources.
  • Treatises: In-depth analysis of particular areas of law.
  • Law Reviews and Journals: Scholarly articles on a wide range of legal topics.
  • Practice Guides: Step-by-step guides on how to handle different types of legal matters.

 

Reference Materials:

 

• • Legal Dictionaries: Definitions of legal terms and phrases.
  • Digests: Summaries of court decisions, organized by subject.
  • Citators: Tools like Shepard’s or KeyCite to check the history and treatment of legal authorities.

 

Technology and Online Databases:

 

• • Legal Research Platforms: Services like Westlaw, LexisNexis, and Bloomberg Law.
  • Public Access Terminals: Computers that provide free access to certain legal databases.

 

Archives and Special Collections:

 

• • Historical Legal Documents: Important for understanding the evolution of laws.
  • Rare Law Books: Early treatises and legal texts that are often hard to find.

 

Getting Help at the Law Library

 

Reference Librarians:

 

• • Law libraries typically have reference librarians who are experts in legal research and can guide you to the right resources.
  • They can also assist with using online legal databases and other electronic resources.

 

Research Workshops and Seminars:

 

• • Many law libraries offer workshops that teach research strategies and how to use specific resources.

 

Guides and Tutorials:

 

• • Printed guides or online tutorials for conducting legal research are often available.

 

How the Law Library Can Be Helpful

 

Legal Research:

 

• • Law libraries are the places to go for comprehensive legal research.
  • They provide the resources necessary to find case law, statutes, and develop legal arguments.

 

Academic Support:

 

• • Law libraries support academic endeavors, offering materials for coursework, moot court competitions, and law review research.

 

Continuing Legal Education:

 

• • They serve as hubs for continuing education through seminars, bulletins, and updates on the law.

 

Public Services:

          

• • Law libraries often provide legal information to the public, helping individuals understand their legal rights and obligations.

 

Professional Development:

 

• • They offer resources for professionals to deepen their understanding of specialized legal areas.

 

Legal Writing and Publications:

 

• • Access to research materials and databases is essential for producing high-quality legal writing and publications.

 

Tips for Using a Law Library

 

Plan Your Visit:

 

• • Know the library’s hours and any access restrictions.
  • Have a clear research plan or questions ready if you need assistance.

 

Use Online Catalogs:

 

• • Familiarize yourself with the library’s catalog to locate materials quickly.

 

Take Advantage of Technology:

 

• • Utilize online databases and research platforms available through the library.

 

Follow Library Policies:

 

• • Understand and adhere to the library’s policies regarding checkouts, photocopies, and computer use.

 

Engage with the Community:

 

• • Participate in events and seminars to network and learn from others.

 

A law library can be a goldmine of information, providing the tools and support needed to succeed in the legal world. Whether you’re drafting a legal memorandum, preparing for a trial, or just interested in legal study, knowing how to effectively use a law library is an indispensable skill.

 

For a more comprehensive look at legal research, how to do a legal analysis, and the civil litigation process generally, check out the Self Rep Edge Video Series and Civil Litigation Workbook.