12 Academic Tools and Resources Useful for Law Students

Studying law demands going through rigorous coursework, performing extensive research, and learning complex legal concepts. Fortunately, along with college-provided books, numerous academic tools and resources are available online. Students can access them to clarify doubts and strengthen concepts.

From research databases to study aids, these academic tools for law students can help them focus on specific topics, enhance understanding, and improve their performance. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore 12 essential tools and resources that every law student in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) region can benefit from.

Importance of Learning Resources Apart from College Syllabus

Using additional learning resources beyond what is provided in college can greatly enhance the quality of legal education. Online platforms offer various materials, from research databases to study aids, helping students test their classroom learning.

These resources offer exposure to real-world legal scenarios, deepening students’ understanding of the subject. Students can use such resources to improve their skills, excel academically, and better equip themselves to reach new heights in the legal field.

12 Learning Resources Essential for Law Students

The sheer volume of legal content encompassing property law, civil law, criminal law, and other areas of law can overwhelm a student. Moreover, students need to stay updated with the ever-changing landscape of law and acquire enough analytical skills to interpret and apply legal concepts in real-world cases.

Following is a list of 12 online resources that can help law students achieve the necessary expertise.

1. Lexis Middle East Online Library

The Lexis Middle East online library is a platform that offers useful learning resources for in-depth legal research. On its website, students can access a full range of cases, legislation, commentary, forms, handbooks, legal journals, news and bulletins relevant to the UAE and the wider Middle East region.

2. Westlaw Middle East Website

Similar to Lexis, Westlaw Middle East is an online legal research tool. Students can access various legal resources by signing up on their official website. Resources include court cases from the Middle East and updates on industry-relevant news.

The platform has a team of experienced professionals knowledgeable about the Middle East. They are ready to support students with legal translations and research-related questions.

3. UAE Federal Legislation Websites

Websites such as the UAE Ministry of Justice or the Federal e-Legislation Portal offer some of the best research tools for law students. They provide access to the latest federal laws, decrees, and regulations enacted by the UAE government.

4. Dubai Courts Website

The Dubai Courts website offers valuable resources for accessing court judgments, legal procedures, and information on the judicial system in Dubai.

5. Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Portal

The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department portal provides access to legal resources, including court judgments, laws, and regulations applicable in Abu Dhabi.

6. Legal Databases and Journals

Subscription-based legal databases and journals such as HeinOnline, JSTOR, or SSRN are of great value to law students. They provide access to scholarly articles, case law, and legal research materials relevant to UAE law.

7. UAE Law Libraries and Legal Research Guides

Law libraries in universities or legal institutions often provide access to print and electronic resources, including books, journals, and databases specific to UAE law. Online legal research guides and tutorials tailored for UAE law students serve as valuable resources. They help students learn how to conduct legal research effectively and efficiently.

8. Legal Blogs and Websites

Blogs and websites maintained by legal professionals or organisations specialising in UAE law help students immensely. They offer insights, analysis, and updates on legal developments and trends in the region.

9. Legal Dictionaries and Glossaries

Online legal dictionaries and glossaries specific to UAE law terminology help students understand legal terms and concepts in Arabic and English.

10. Law School Libraries and Resources

Law schools in the UAE often provide access to dedicated law libraries, academic journals, study guides, and legal research workshops to support students in their studies.

11. Google Scholar, Dropbox or Google Drive

Google Scholar is a freely accessible web search engine that indexes scholarly articles, legal opinions, patents, and case law from academic publishers and legal repositories. Additionally, law students can use Google Scholar to find authoritative sources, track citations, and explore interdisciplinary research relevant to their studies.

Cloud storage platforms like Dropbox and Google Drive offer law students secure and convenient ways to store, sync, and share documents, research papers, and study materials. With their inbuilt features and accessibility from any device, these storage platforms enable law students to collaborate with peers, access files on the go, and back up important documents.

12. Legal Podcasts and Webinars

Legal podcasts and webinars provide law students with useful information on the latest trends and developments in the field of law. Platforms like Legal Talk Network and Law School Toolbox offer podcasts, webinars, and online courses covering a wide range of legal topics, practice areas, and career advice for aspiring lawyers.

Conclusion

The modern era of technology has made numerous academic tools for law Students accessible in various forms over the internet. These tools or resources can range from databases for legal research to study aids, note-taking apps, and online learning platforms. Students can use them to deepen their grasp of legal concepts, sharpen their research abilities, and ready themselves for prosperous careers in law.