Finding the Answers to Legal Questions, Second Edition

Book excerpt: Whether for self-representation, to be an informed consumer of legal services, or to learn the U.S. legal system, more people than ever are using the library to obtain legal information and legal research advice. The new edition of Finding the Answers to Legal Questions is a comprehensive guide to help librarians confidently assist users in finding the legal information they need. Newly revised and updated, this timely, clearly organized, and easy-to-use resource is packed with guidance to help librarians answer questions that span the gamut of the law. An ideal book for practicing librarians looking to better serve users' legal needs, as well as for students preparing for careers as librarians, it provides an overview of fundamental legal information, including the basic structure of the U.S. legal system and primary law;how-to instructions for finding primary law in print sources, free websites, and pay-for-view databases;information on how to evaluate the trustworthiness of online and print resources;tips for conducting a legal reference interview;guidance for handling common legal questions, such as lawsuits, family law, landlord-tenant disputes, wills and estate planning, debt, bankruptcy, employment, and criminal law; andadvice on how to build a basic legal reference collection. This book will help librarians connect users to the most accurate, up-to-date legal information.