Learn the essentials of legal research in Ontario, from prioritizing resources to using court practice guides and online tools.
Experienced law librarians will cover the methodology of legal research and will explain how to research quickly, efficiently, and exhaustively.
This course provides an in-depth exploration of effective legal research methodologies tailored for law students, articling candidates, and legal professionals. Learn to navigate both traditional and digital resources with ease, apply structured frameworks like the PAC method, and leverage tools to optimize your research process. From understanding legislation and case law to mastering secondary sources, this course equips you with the skills to save time, reduce stress, and produce comprehensive legal analyses.
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Toronto Lawyers Association
For more than 135 years, the Toronto Lawyers' Association, located within the Courthouse Library, has represented the interests of lawyers practising in the City of Toronto. The association was founded to support its members in three key areas: Knowledge, Advocacy, and Community. To uphold these pillars, the association offers a year-round mix of online and in-person education programs for lawyers, hosts both free and paid events to foster in-person networking, and submits advocacy pieces on behalf of its members to the Ontario bench and bar, all levels of government, and the broader public.
Library Manager at Toronto Lawyers Association
With a strong background in library and information science, Megan is an experienced library professional specializing in legal research, library management, and outreach. Currently the Library Manager at the Toronto Lawyers Association, Megan provides comprehensive reference services, manages digital resources, and leads outreach initiatives to support Toronto's legal community. Previously, they served as a Reference & Outreach Librarian, enhancing library services through vendor partnerships and training programs. With a Master’s in Information from the University of Toronto and an MA in History and Politics from the University of Edinburgh, Megan combines expertise in library science and research with a commitment to accessible legal information and resources.
Executive Director/Library Director of the Toronto Lawyers Association
Joan Rataic-Lang is Executive Director / Library Director of the Toronto Lawyers Association (TLA). She is a great supporter of professional development, both as an avid participant and an enthusiastic provider, having been on the organizing committees of several national conferences and an occasional speaker both locally and nationally. She has been managing the Courthouse Library since 2010. Before coming to the TLA, she had 20 years of experience managing large law firm libraries and also worked in sales, education, and executive search. If “variety is the spice of life,” Joan’s career has been a highly seasoned bowl of chili.
