In rural communities and solo practice settings, it is not uncommon for attorneys to face unique challenges in accessing current, comprehensive legal research tools and support. Even with expanding digital availability, access to comprehensive legal databases remains cost-prohibitive for many solo or small firms.

Yet in Wisconsin, solo and small firm practitioners – particularly those in remote areas – have a valuable and often underutilized resource: our state’s public and academic law libraries. Remote access to authoritative resources, professional research support, and on-site access to services through libraries serve to supplement the needs of rural and remote lawyers.

Resources are available to attorneys at three major legal libraries in Wisconsin: the Wisconsin State Law Library, the Marquette University Eckstein Law Library, and the University of Wisconsin Law Library.

For remote and solo attorneys, these institutions provide essential tools that bridge gaps in access to collaboration and legal resources, allowing attorneys to conduct high-level research.

Why This Matters for Rural and Solo Attorneys

There is no doubt that getting access to appropriate legal research can be an onerous task. Tools are often expensive, especially without in-office subscriptions to costly databases. Libraries provide not only access, but also the professional research expertise to assist with complex legal questions, often at no cost. Libraries offer remote access to select ebooks, journals, and legal commentary, expanding usability beyond the physical boundaries.

Whether an office is in northern Iron County or rural Crawford County, navigating legal research and resources does not have to be a solo act. The geographical and professional isolation experienced can be reduced by leveraging professional services of the unsung partners of solo and rural legal practice – law librarians. Many research tools and assistance services can be accessed online, reducing the need for travel to in-person visits.

Wisconsin State Law Library

A premier public legal research institution in Wisconsin, the Wisconsin State Law Library serves the entire state. It provides an impressive array of services that are accessible to attorneys statewide.

The Wisconsin State Law Library incorporates key resources including legal research guides and self-help tools, county legal resources directories, approved continuing legal education classes, online legal databases, tutorials, and research assistance.

For attorneys facing intricate legal issues, the ‘Ask a Librarian’ service offers timely, expert research assistance without the financial burden of external consultants or costly databases.

The Wisconsin State Law Library is open to the public. Attorneys visiting the Madison location can access the library’s full suite of subscription-based and licensed resources, which are not available remotely.

Marquette University Law School Ray & Kay Eckstein Law Library

Although a private institution, Marquette University Law School opens its Eckstein Law Library to public researchers, including practicing attorneys who need access to specialized legal resources not found elsewhere. On-site legal databases, government publications, librarian assistance, and public-access computers are available.

Eckstein Law library welcomes members of the public who are conducting legal research, including practicing attorneys. Visitors are asked to present photo identification and sign in upon arrival.

U.W. Law Library

The University of Wisconsin Law Library offers extensive collections in both print and digital formats, including international and historical legal materials. Public legal terminals, comprehensive collections, live support, and interlibrary loan services are available in addition to document delivery services.

The U.W. Law Library is open to the public. Legal professionals may conduct research on-site and are encouraged to consult with reference librarians during staffed hours for assistance with navigating materials.

Next Steps

Consider bookmarking these websites for the next research topic to be tackled. Call ahead before visiting in-person to verify hours and any access requirements, including obtaining a library card. Educational institutions may limit general access during exam periods to ensure student access. Subscribe to library newsletters. Timely information and resources are sent directly to email.

Schedule time to consult with a research professional to get familiar with current services or assist with inquiries. Consider getting expert assistance with brief writing or motion practice.

Leveraging these hidden gems can be a cost-effective substitute for in-house research staff or databases. While legal knowledge is at the foundation of the legal profession, access to the right tools and professional support empower efficient lawyering, no matter where a practice is located.

This article was originally published on the State Bar of Wisconsin’s Solo/Small Firm & General Practice Blog of the Solo/Small Firm & General Practice Section. Visit the State Bar sections or the Solo/Small Firm & General Practice Section web pages to learn more about the benefits of section membership.