Resources for Self-Represented Parties

The U.S. legal system is based on common law [doctrine], prior court decisions (case law) carry real legal weight. Sometimes there isn’t even a legal statute for a law such as Constructive Eviction in North Carolina as I mentioned in my lesson.

Judges don’t just apply statutes; they interpret them, and those interpretations shape future rulings. So if a higher court has ruled a certain way, that ruling can become binding precedent for lower courts. That’s why knowing case law isn’t just helpful—it’s often the difference between winning and losing.

Knowing where to find accurate legal information is essential, so here are some free and paid legal research platforms with brief descriptions to help you choose what fits your needs. Just know that a paid subscription isn’t always necessary—many public libraries offer free access to premium platforms. The free ones are excellent too; they just require sharper research skills to sift through results and verify accuracy and standing.

The key thing to remember is this: not all case law is usable. Judges aren’t infallible, and some rulings get overturned, contradicted, or lose relevance—especially when common law is later codified into statute. The guide below is here to help you navigate that and use case law strategically, not blindly. 

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.