Often in your summer placements, you’ll be given assignments dealing with topics not covered in the basic Legal Research class. But don’t worry, the Library has you covered. Beginning Monday, March 25th when all 1Ls and 2Ls log in to Blackboard they will see a new Board – Prepare to Practice 2024. Prepare to Practice is a series of ten video lectures designed to give you an in-depth explanation of the types of research you may be facing this summer.
- Going to a NGO or other non-profit organization this summer? Check out Sylvia Yanes’ lecture on Public Policy & Non-Profit Research.
- Interested in learning how to find the factual information lawyers need in preparing for litigation or a negotiation? Sam Cabo had to do this often while working at a Am Law 100 firm. She will show where this information lurks on the Internet.
- Working in Virginia this summer? Joyce Manna Janto will assure you that Virginia is for Lawyers as she guides you through the intricacies of Virginia legal research.
- Concerned that a summer project might start with a blank document and limited guidance? Check out the overview of Practical Law, Practical Guidance and forms collections that Sylvia Yanes found helpful when she was in-house counsel to a major construction company.
- Or perhaps you will be interested in learning how to update a legal document by watching Joyce Manna Janto as she outlines How to Update the Law.
- Worried that Westlaw Precision will throw you for a loop or that your Lexis searching skills are a bit rusty? Then you can view a research refresher video from these services.
- Fortunate enough to land a judicial placement? Listen to former clerks Molly Lentz-Meyer and Joleen Traynor as they explain the ins and outs of working for a judge.
- Dealing with the administrative state? Alex Hutchings, drawing on his work with the SEC, will explain the ins and outs of administrative research.
- Wondering what a “typical” summer assignment would look like? Listen as Joyce Manna Janto reviews six typical assignments and where to find the information to complete them.
These videos will be available all summer long so feel free to come back to them as your summer placement unfolds.
Another thing to consider is that viewing at two of these videos is a requirement for the Summer Public Service Stipend.
Prepare to Practice: Research Tips and Tricks to Make Your Summer Easier