New York Lawz: One-Stop Access to Free New York Resources

New York Lawz is brand new website, developed by a New York court librarian, that aims to bring as many free New York legal resources as possible together in one place.  It provides links to primary sources, including statutes, case law, regulations, and ethics opinions, as well as forms, journal articles, court information, free and low cost CLE listings, and current attorney job listings. As the website states: "Our mission is to provide ease of use to New York State and New York City legal information and documents at no cost to users.  Although there are many such sources of information, they are scattered across the Internet.  New York Lawz provides one stop access." Created by Gene Preudhomme, Director of the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division, First Department Law Library, New York Lawz should be a great resource for law students and for new and seasoned attorneys. The site also wants to hear your recommendations and suggestions. 
 

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Oral Argument Transcripts From NY Court of Appeals

The New York Court of Appeals is now posting oral argument transcripts as well as webcasts of the arguments in New York's highest court.  The Oral Argument Archives on the Court's website includes argument webcasts going back to January 2010. Written transcripts were added beginning with the September 2012 session.  Transcripts now appear about one week after the video of an oral argument is posted.  This is a great resource for attorneys new to appellate work or to the Court of Appeals, and provides some model arguments for law students.  In addition, the Archives includes oral argument webcasts for important capital cases and public policy issues cases heard by the Court.

Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat

Voting for Judges

Here in New York we elect our Judges. You understand the critical role judges play in our legal system, having read dozens of cases (or is it thousands?). Even though I cannot vote (voting rights for Virtual Cats???), I have found a great site to be informed about judicial candidates - New York State Judicial Candidate Voter Guide .

And, if you are confused (as I was) about the different courts and districts in Nassau County, you can read a brief description on the same page. For more detail on the court system, link to New York State Courts - an Introductory Guide . The first few pages have a great explanation of the jurisdiction of the various courts.

Make sure you go out and vote! I would if I could.
Ernster, the Virtual Library Cat