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Constitutional Law and American History: Getting Started

This research guide provides a starting point for students conducting research in American constitutional law. It will address how to find the United States Constitution and the secondary sources discussing it.

Quick Links

Scholar One Search Library catalog

Law Library Homepage

Law Research Databases 

Lexis Access restrictions apply

Westlaw Access restrictions apply

Bloomberg Law Access restrictions apply

Research Tips

Before starting your research:

  • Clarify what it is you are researching and why. Ask questions.
  • Try to spot the important issues
  • Identify your jurisdiction
  • Brainstorm some keywords to use as search terms
  • Make a research plan: where will you look, and why?

Some helpful tools:

Introduction

This research guide will provide you with sources on how to locate the United States Constitution and judicial interpretations of these laws including secondary sources.

How to Use this Guide

This guide is intended to introduce you to some of the key resources available at the Northeastern University School of Law Library for researching constitutional law. 

Here are some suggestions:

  • Need ideas to start your research?  Try the Treatises page
  • Looking for primary sources? Visit the Case Law page
  • Preparing for an exam? Check out the Study Aids page

The materials mentioned in this guide -- except where classified as Reference, Reserve or Database -- are most often found in the on the 4th Floor of the Law Library. 

Get Help

Reference Librarians are available to help you with your research questions

3rd Floor Law Library at Info Desk

Monday -Friday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm