Law School Library Reference Site Search Research Guides Finding Records and Briefs Legal Researchers read the records and briefs of a case when that case is particularly relevant to their research. The records of a case can include pleadings, motions, a trial transcript, orders, instructions to juries, and judgments. What is actually included in the published records for each case varies widely and can only be determined by actually looking at the records for the case. Depending on the court, it can be difficult to track down records and briefs. If you need records and briefs that we don't have, come to the Reference Desk for assistance.
Many libraries are willing to lend copies of records and briefs that they collect.
There is an excellent guide describing the holdings of libraries for records and briefs, and whether or not they are available for interlibrary loan. If the Library cannot find a library willing to lend the briefs you need, you may try to track the materials down through the court itself by contacting the clerk of court. For court clerk contact information, see BNA's Directory of State and Federal Courts, Judges, and Clerks , Ref Desk KF8700.A19 B53, AWN4522. Although records and briefs are part of the public record, be aware that courts traditionally charge high fees to retrieve the records from storage and to make copies. There is about a two month lag between time of filing and appearance in the Source.