MasterClassinAdvancedWestlaw.ppt

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *  Topic Lists in Print Digests Use the alphabetical Digest Topics list at the beginning of each print digest volume as a table of contents. Check the key numbers under the topics that seem most relevant. Browsing the Topic Hierarchy West’s Analysis of American Law West’s Analysis of American Law lists all the topics and the specific key numbers with the title given to each key number. Constitutional Law TOPIC NO. 92 90.1– Particular Expressions and Limitations (1.2) Election Regulations Browsing the Topic Hierarchy Descriptive Word Index When classifying points of law and assigning to key numbers, West attorney-editors choose words that describe the important facts and legal issues These fact and issue words are arranged alphabetically in the Descriptive Word Index volumes of the digest. The Descriptive Word Index refers you to relevant topic and key numbers. Ask, “What words describe the pertinent facts of the case or legal question involved?” Most descriptive words fall into one of five categories of elements common to every case: Parties or facts Places and things Issue or basis of action Defenses Relief sought Finding Relevant Key Numbers in Print Descriptive Word Index Example: John Landlord failed to replace a light bulb in the hallway of one of his apartment buildings. Jane Tenant failed to see a step and fell down a flight of stairs. She is suing John for damages. You might start by checking in the index under landlord, tenant, apartment, common area, or premise liability. At least one of these entries will probably lead you to key numbers assigned to headnotes in cases that discuss the same or similar issues. Finding Relevant Key Numbers in Print Descriptive Word Index Secondary Sources’ Library R