Business Research Sources -ch 15: Law and Legal Information Directory

15. Directories

Description of Publication: Law and Legal Information Directory

A directory that could prove very useful researching legal information is the Law and Legal Information Directory (ISBN 0-8103-69524), which describes organizations, services, programs, and other sources of data about the legal field, bringing together in one work a considerable array of topics on an area of increasing significance to all walks of life. From the casual newspaper reader to the legal professional, everyone is aware of the impact of the law on everyday situations: malpractice for lawyers, dentists, doctors, and even clergy; compliance regulations to avoid gender, racial, or disabilities discrimination; waste disposal directives; and a myriad of other laws with ramifications for social, business, and political activities. Law and Legal Information Directory (Gale Research Inc.) profiles a wide range of organizations, services, and programs relating to law and the legal profession. Materials from the 6th edition are organized into 25 chapters, as outlined on the contents page. Of particular note to business students are Chapters 7, Law Schools; 8, Continuing Legal Education; 9, Paralegal Education; 10, Scholarships and Grants; 11, Awards and Prizes; 13, Information Systems and Services; 22, Small Claims Courts; and 23, Corporation Departments of States.

Something to Do

How about perusing a directory of directories? If you can't seem to find the directory you had your heart set on seeing, look up the Directories in Print. According to Lavin's book, Business Information, this indispensable guide lists over 10,000 directories published in the United States. It is divided into 16 broad categories; however, the majority of listings are for directories of companies and other business-related publications. Hundreds of business activities, for example, are represented by such titles as the Tent Rental Directory, the Sandblasting Companies Directory, and so on. The emphasis, according to Lavin, is on national and international directories, though some regional publications are described. Another tool for identifying directories is the Guide to American Directories, which concentrates on business topics and includes many directories not found in the Gale publications. Entries are arranged alphabetically by subject and accessed by a title index.