Every day, librarians encounter questions from patrons on how to engage in the legal system, ranging from how to file for divorce to conducting legal, academic research. Montanans need to understand the importance of their legal rights and where they can go for accurate, reputable legal resources and forms. While not everyone can afford a lawyer, and not everybody wants one, everyone can benefit from learning about the law, how the legal system works, and where they might access legal guidance. The library community can help address the need for the public to better understand the workings of their federal, state, and local government, particularly the judicial branch of government.

The webinars, documents, videos, and discussion within this section will assist librarians with:

• Helping patrons locate legal resources, particularly online resources
• Understanding what can and cannot legally be said to patrons
• Organizing community events, such as Law in the Library, to increase your community’s understanding of the Law in Montana
• Referring patrons to local resources and self-help offices for legal guidance
• Increasing awareness of the legal system and structures in Montana

Montana Legal Resources Links: 

• State Law Library of Montana - Law by Topic
• The Montana Supreme Court Self-Help Law Program
• Montana Legal Services Association
• Montana Law Help
• State Bar of Montana - Legal and Community Resources
• Law Day 2012