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Exploring Corpus Juris Secundum: A Comprehensive Legal Encyclopedia
Definition & Meaning
Corpus Juris Secundum (CJS) is a comprehensive encyclopedia of U.S. law, organized in an alphabetical format. It covers a wide range of legal topics, providing clear explanations and footnoted citations to relevant case law and other primary legal sources. Published by West, a division of Thomson Reuters, CJS is regularly updated with annual supplements to ensure it reflects the latest developments in the law.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
Corpus Juris Secundum is widely used by legal professionals, including attorneys and judges, as a reference tool for understanding various areas of law. It encompasses multiple legal fields such as:
Civil law
Criminal law
Family law
Contract law
Users can benefit from CJS when preparing legal documents or conducting legal research. It serves as a valuable resource for individuals looking to manage their legal affairs with the help of tools like US Legal Forms' templates, which are created by qualified attorneys.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Here are a couple of examples of how Corpus Juris Secundum might be used:
A lawyer researching the legal standards for negligence might consult the relevant section in CJS to find case law and legal principles that apply to their case.
A self-represented litigant may use CJS to understand the legal requirements for filing a divorce in their state (hypothetical example).
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Legal Context
California
Extensive case law on family law topics.
Texas
Unique statutes governing property division in divorce.
New York
Specific legal precedents on contract law.
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Key Differences
Corpus Juris Secundum
An encyclopedia of U.S. law.
Focuses on summarizing legal principles and case law.
American Jurisprudence
Another legal encyclopedia.
May have different organizational structures and content emphasis.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you find yourself needing to understand a specific area of law, consider the following steps:
Consult Corpus Juris Secundum for a clear overview of the legal principles involved.
Use US Legal Forms to find templates that can assist you in preparing necessary legal documents.
If your situation is complex, it may be wise to seek professional legal advice.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.