How to use Lawtopolis
New to Lawtopolis? Start here.
Here is how to use Lawtopolis: how the site is organized, where to begin, and what it is — and is not.
Understand the site
What Lawtopolis is
What it is
A legal education platform and a professional directory. We explain how the law works so you can follow a legal matter and ask better questions.
What it is not
Not a law firm, not legal advice, no attorney-client relationship. We do not tell you what to file. Templates are blank forms you complete.
Find your way around
Seven places to explore
Learn the Law
Topic pages by practice area, beginner first with advanced sections.
Motions & Procedures
One page per filing, with the governing rule and source.
Academy
Ordered courses with lessons and quizzes.
Research Center
How to find, read and verify primary law yourself.
Theory Review
Popular legal claims checked against the record.
Templates
Blank, editable documents.
Professionals
Attorneys and legal service providers.
Your account is free
One account to save topics, track courses, keep template purchases and message professionals.
Overview
How to use Lawtopolis in four steps
First, decide what you need. If you want to understand a process, begin with Learn the Law. If you already know the name of a filing, open the motions and procedures library instead.
Second, look up any unfamiliar word. Every key term links to its own glossary entry, so you can read a short definition and then come straight back.
Third, check the source. Each page links to the official rule, statute or decision it relies on. For federal cases, you can also read the current federal court rules directly. For state cases, use our state procedures guide.
Finally, get help when you need it. That is how to use Lawtopolis well: learn the process here, then talk to a licensed attorney about your own situation. Our directory labels verified attorneys clearly, and your free account keeps your saved topics and courses in one place.
Lawtopolis provides legal information and education, not legal advice. Using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and court rules vary by jurisdiction and change over time; verify every authority against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction about your situation.