NCJ Number
85406
Journal
Legal Reference Services Quarterly Volume: 1 Issue: 1 Dated: (Spring 1981) Pages: 5-11
Date Published
1981
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article highlights the research tools that provide criminal defense attorneys with current information on criminal law and procedure, emphasizing resources in Federal practice.
Abstract
Criminal defense attorneys frequently face heavy caseloads, rapid trial proceedings, and almost daily changes in criminal law and procedure. Effective research tools are essential in the attorney's work. The most widely used resource for information on recent developments in criminal law and procedure for both Federal and State courts is the 'Criminal Law Reporter.' Other sources include West's 'Federal Case News' and, in California, the 'Los Angeles Daily Journal.' Essential resources for the criminal practitioner in the courtroom include West's unannotated 'Federal Rules' and 'Bell's Search and Seizure Compendium.' With regard to general defense preparation, numerous treatises are now available. West's 'Federal Practice Digest,' Wright's 'Federal Practice and Procedure,' and 'Federal Jury Practice and Instructions' are three of the most useful treatises in use. These resources can provide the framework for thorough legal research by identifying relevant cases and statutes. An 18-entry bibliography is provided.