LexisNexis and Westlaw are online search services containing the full texts of state and federal case law and a growing array of statutory, administrative, and secondary materials. Please note that Southwestern's contracts with LexisNexis and Westlaw restrict the use of these databases to Southwestern students, faculty and staff for law school-related, educational research. The rules on use of the services during externship placements vary, so students should check the LexisNexis and Westlaw web sites (www.lexis.com/lawschool and lawschool.westlaw.com) for the most current information.
The library provides LexisNexis and Westlaw passwords to all students. These passwords can be used to access the services from any computer with Internet access. First-year students are trained in the use of both systems as part of the LAWS course. We encourage you to gain proficiency on both systems. Refresher training is offered each semester.
On campus printing options for LexisNexis and Westlaw include printing to the high-speed laser printers located behind the Circulation Desk (at no charge), downloading to disk, sending search results to an e-mail address, or sending them to an attached printer. Printouts must be picked up from the Circulation Desk within forty-eight hours due to the high volume of printing. We urge, for the sake of the environment, that you print only what you actually intend to read. Please note that transfer and visiting students should obtain Southwestern passwords at the Reference Desk to insure the appropriate local print options.
LexisNexis and Westlaw student representatives are available during the Fall and Spring semesters to answer questions or provide quick refreshers. Their office hours are posted in the Learning Centers along with contact information. In addition, LexisNexis and Westlaw customer service is available during all hours of library operation through automatic dial telephones in the first floor Computer Lab and Learning Centers on the lower level.
Southwestern alumni can access both LexisNexis and Westlaw for career searching by obtaining passwords from the Career Services office. Access is restricted to the career databases that the providers elect to make available to alumni.
Alumni and other patrons can access Shepard's on LexisNexis. This service is available on three specially designated computers near the Reference Desk.
