Online databases can be invaluable, time-saving tools to any legal researcher as they provide organized access to a wide array of legal resources as well as sophisticated search tools. Many online databases, including fee-based databases, are available at the Law Library, free of charge, to library patrons. This month, the blog will feature six of the online databases available at the Law Library.
NOLO publishes do-it-yourself manuals, a lawyer directory and form books in print and electronic formats all written in plain English, meaning that you do not need a legal background to understand the text. For legal research, NOLO’s materials can be a great starting point to get a general understanding of the law in a specific subject. Through the library’s online subscription, you have access NOLO’s publications, which include titles on topics such as auto accidents, bankruptcy, business law, criminal law, debt management, disability law, LGBT law, medical malpractice, real estate, small businesses, workers’ compensation and much more! You can search for specific keywords or browse titles. However, NOLO does not provide legal advice, and you should not consider these materials as a substitute for legal advice from an attorney.
Can I access NOLO at the Library? Yes! The Law Library offers FREE, in-person access to the NOLO database.
How to use NOLO in the Library? You can access NOLO from any of the public access computers available at the Law Library.
What to do if you need help with NOLO? Please ask for help at the Law Library’s service desk. We can provide technical and research assistance.
Can I access the Law Library’s NOLO subscription from home? No. The Law Library’s current subscription permits in-person use at the library only. However, NOLO offers many free articles on topics like accidents, bankruptcy, immigration, taxes, wills, and much more. You can access this free information at www.nolo.com.
Do you prefer print resources? Then check out the Law Library’s print collection of NOLO titles, which includes the following:
- NOLO’s Encyclopedia of Everyday Law (SELF HELP KF387 .N65 2014);
- NOLO’s Essential Guide to Divorce (SELF HELP KF535 .D67 2014);
- NOLO’s Guide to Social Security Disability (SELF HELP KF3649 .M6 2014);
- Patent, Copyright & Trademark (SELF HELP KF2980 .E44 2014);
- Contracts: The Essential Business Desk Reference (SELF HELP KF801 .S75 2011);
- Neighbor Law: Fences, Trees, Boundaries & Noise (SELF HELP KF639 .J67 2014);
- Plus many more!
For more information about understanding legal research, including the difference between primary and secondary legal resources, check out these research guides.
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