Winning Research Skills - Westlaw

Fundamentals of Administrative Law
determinations, letters, memoranda, and reorganization plans. All executive orders and
proclamations published in the Federal Register are compiled annually in title 3 of the CFR and
in West’s U.S. Code Congressional and Administrative News.
Presidential documents are included in the Presidential Documents (PRES), USCCAN, CFR, and
FR databases on Westlaw.
State Administrative Law Materials
Administrative powers comparable to those of federal agencies are vested in state agencies,
based upon the power of the states to regulate their internal commerce. Typical state agencies
include state public service commissions, environmental protection agencies, and labor relations
boards.
Many states have administrative codes similar in format to the CFR and administrative registers
similar to the Federal Register. However, state administrative materials are frequently more
difficult to obtain than federal materials. Often the agency itself is a good source for its
regulations and administrative decisions. You might obtain materials directly from the agency
that are not commercially published.
Westlaw offers a range of state administrative materials, including administrative codes for all
50 states and the District of Columbia; coverage varies by jurisdiction. For a complete, current
list of Westlaw databases in this area, refer to the Westlaw Directory.
Conclusion
If researching administrative law seems intimidating, that is probably because the area is
unfamiliar. As you become more experienced with the materials described in this chapter, you
will find that they are very useful and relatively easy to use. Keep in mind that online services
such as Westlaw often provide the most accessible, comprehensive, and current information
about administrative law.
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