About Dictionaries & Encyclopedias
Start here when a legal topic is new to you. Legal dictionaries give quick, reliable definitions of terms. Legal encyclopedias explain the law in plain narrative, with citations to cases and statutes you can follow. Use these to get oriented, find keywords, and grab citations to primary law—then move on to cases, statutes, and regulations.
Legal Dictionaries
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Black's Law Dictionary (12th ed)
Call Number: EbookPublication Date: 2024The leading U.S. legal dictionary. Clear, authoritative definitions with cross-references and pronunciation. Best for precise meanings you can cite.
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Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law
Call Number: 3rd Level - KF156 .M47 2016Publication Date: 2016Concise, readable definitions of 10,000+ terms, often with usage notes and example phrases. Good for quick lookups and plain-language clarity. -
Nolo's Free Dictionary of Law Terms and Legal Definitions
Call Number: Free WebsitePlain-English explanations aimed at non-lawyers. Great for first-pass understanding; confirm language with Black’s or an encyclopedia if you’re writing formally.
Legal Encyclopedias
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American Jurisprudence (2nd ed)
Call Number: EbookBrief, well-organized overviews of U.S. law with citations to leading cases and statutes. A strong “first stop” to learn the landscape and build a reading list.
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Corpus Juris Secundum
Call Number: EbookBroad, detailed coverage across U.S. legal subjects. Complements American Jurisprudence; if one seems thin on your topic, try the other.
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Michigan Civil Jurisprudence
Call Number: EbookMichigan-specific encyclopedia. Explains Michigan law with citations to Michigan cases, statutes, and court rules—ideal when your assignment focuses on Michigan.
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Michigan Law and Practice Encyclopedia (2nd ed.)
Call Number: 3rd Level - KFM4265 .M52xAnother Michigan-focused set that pairs well with Michigan Civil Jurisprudence for deeper local coverage. Covers criminal as well as civil law.