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1. What does a law librarian do?

Law librarians work primarily with the courts, mostly superior court judges, and assist the judges and attorneys in finding cases and statues pertaining to whatever issues come before them. Duties include maintaining an inventory of the law library, and writing memorandums that will help the judges determine fair and just resolutions.

2. What is statutory law?

Statutory laws are enactments of law by legislatures, such as the Georgia General Assembly or Congress. They start as bills when introduced by a legislator and become law when signed by a governor on the state level, or the President on the federal level.

3. What is case law?

Case law, also called common law, is not legislative law. Case law is law derived from the courts and is based on principles of law, reason, and common sense. Courts use case law to interpret statutes and the federal and state constitutions and to balance the scales of justice between parties in civil cases as well as criminal cases.

4. What is the difference between law and equity?

Generally, law refers to rules enacted by legislatures, handed down by courts, or derived from local customs that guide our conduct and way of life. Equity was another body of law that developed in England to compensate remedies according to doctrines and principles of fairness not found in the statutes or the common law.

In Georgia, law and equity have merged, but one can file an action in equity or at law depending on the circumstances. Contract actions, debtor-creditor actions, and some domestic relations cases may require equitable relief. Injunctive relief is also equitable. For advice as to whether an action is legal or equitable, please consult an attorney.

5. Are there any organizations for law librarians?

The American Association of Law Libraries provides information on new products, technology, and job listings for other law librarians. This association promotes the value of law librarians to the legal community and the public.