Author: "Thomas M. Loeb, Esq." <tmloeb@rust.net> at ~Internet
Date: 3/12/97  12:00 PM
Priority: Normal
BCC: CITATION at AO-OCPPO
TO: citation@ao.uscourts.gov at ~Internet
CC: love@tap.org at ~Internet
Subject: Public Domain Legal Citations

     To the United States Judicial Conference, Subcommittee on 
Automation and Technology, Dear Sirs:

     By way of this e-mail, please let me be on record as STRONGLY 
supporting the proposal to adopt a method of citation that is in the 
public domain. In allowing such a procedure, the accessability of 
slip opinions would be greatly improved. Additionally, I know from 
personal experience that the likelihood of reversals on appeal would 
decrease, as everyone (not just those who could afford it) involved 
at the trial level would have quicker and more thorough, ready access 
to the law. 

     Because I would not have to pay for as many Westlaw searches, I 
would be able to be more thorough in my research, and my savings 
could be passed on to my clients. Additionally, my practice would 
continue to improve. Although "ignorance of the law is no excuse", 
lawyers and lawyering are held in low esteem by the public in large 
part, I think, because the often confusing and convoluted posture 
that many cases and appellate decisions seem to be in often defy 
logic. If more appellate and trial opinions are accessed by more 
people, then perhaps judges might be more likely to write an opinion 
that is well reasoned, logical, and understandable. 

     Thank you for giving me this opportunity to express my opinion.  

Respectfully,

Thomas M. Loeb, Southfield, Mi
(810)354-6330 / FAX (810)354-1489
tmloeb@rust.net