The comment began with “you’re an idiot.” This comment came in response to a past post about fun legal terms in Black’s Law Dictionary (e.g., damn-fool doctrine, yank-cheating, and logic bomb). With such a strong lead, I was curious what more this commenter had to say. He or she proceeded to explain that I was an idiot because I still use “that old dinosaur book.” I write today to defend old dinosaur books. My commenter friend may have just been referring to legal dictionaries, but I would expand the discussion to legal reference materials more broadly such as code books and commentaries. While the online versions of legal reference materials are searchable—and often cheaper—there is a case for keeping your bookshelf stocked with up-to-date legal reference books. If I were to meet this commenter, I would present the following defense: [Read more…] about In Defense of “Old Dinosaur” Books
About John Passmore
A Reading List for Introverts in Law School
Do unexpected phone calls rattle you? Do you hate the idea of talking in front of a group of strangers (or worse, just one or two strangers)? Do you need time to recharge after interacting with people? If you answered yes to these questions, you are likely an introvert (or at least introvert adjacent). For the introvert, the law library part and journal part of law school may sound great, but the Socratic method part and the networking part might sound terrible. If you are the bold introvert that has decided to embark on the law school journey, here is a reading list to support you, motivate you, and give you hope. Enjoy! [Read more…] about A Reading List for Introverts in Law School
6 Ways to Become a SCOTUS Savant
You will read plenty of U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) opinions throughout law school, but this exposure only lights a fire for some students and lawyers. If you are intrigued by the highest Court in the land, there are amazing resources out there to dive in deep and become a true SCOTUS expert. Here are six easy ways to become a SCOTUS savant. [Read more…] about 6 Ways to Become a SCOTUS Savant
Non-Accredited Law Schools: A Risky Road
Are all law schools the same? No. The American Bar Association (ABA) provides the premier law school accreditation and not all law schools make the grade—and some are not even trying to attain such a status. Some non-accredited law schools boast online options, flexible schedules, or affordability, but such attributes come with risks. No matter which law school you choose, you will be investing significant time, energy, and money. Before choosing a law school which may look attractive, be sure to do your due diligence and make an informed choice. [Read more…] about Non-Accredited Law Schools: A Risky Road
Learning Your Courthouse
Courthouses are unique and fascinating places. They have an ecosystem all their own. As an intern or new attorney, learning your courthouse will be a first step to success and sanity. Even seasoned attorneys can be disoriented by a new courthouse—and that could be just one county removed from where they typically practice. If your practice area involves regular trips to court, be intentional about learning the flow of your courthouse and building relationships with the individuals you will encounter on a day-to-day basis. Here are some tips to help you succeed in getting to know your courthouse. [Read more…] about Learning Your Courthouse
7 Ways to Be a Great Intern
Once you land a great internship, your job is not done. You have to be a great intern. Being an intern is hard, but simple things can make you a standout to your supervisor and your temporary office. Here are seven things you can do to become the good kind of intern and avoid being the bad kind of intern.