Skip to Main Content

Law Search Guide: Get ready for my first semester

This guide will show you how to search a law topic using quick and simple methods.

What should I do before the start of the semester?

1. Look at the New to CDU Guide

The New to CDU guide will give you information that all students need. Including:

  1. Activating your student account 
  2. Finding your student number 
  3. Getting your student card 
2. Set up your tech 
  1.  Check your student email account, check it for correspondence from CDU. 
  2. Set up Microsoft Office 365 on your personal computer. 
  3. Login to Learnline to access your learning materials, live classes, lecture recordings, and other information. 
3.  Find out if your unit has a textbook
Most law units will have a prescribed or recommended textbook; see what textbook you need by looking at your Reading List in each Learnline unit or see the Reading List Tile in your student portal or on the Library Website. 
 
4. Orientate yourself to the Library
The Library will be your guide by your side throughout your law studies. Some things you will need to know include:
  1. The Library Website- This will give you access to an online collection of eBooks, books, and journal articles that will be essential to your study. Use Library Search, the main search box, to search most of the Library's collection. 
  2. Borrowing- Your student card is your Library Card, which you can borrow from any of the campus libraries, or if you live away from campus, you can borrow via Distance Library Services.
  3.  Assessment help- The Library can help you understand your assignment topics, find information, write, and reference. Two services can help you:
    • Librarians- help with searching and referencing. 
    • Language and Learning Support- help with study skills and writing.  
  4. Workshops- The Library offers various workshops throughout the year to help you with your study.  
  5. Opening hours- Campus Libraries are available to help you in-person and online. They also offer printing, scanning, and photocopying facilities, and spaces to book, or spaces to study. 
 
5. Download for free or purchase a hard copy of the AGLC
The Australian Guide to Legal Citation (AGLC) is the legal referencing style used at CDU. You can access an online copy or you can purchase a copy online.
Charles Darwin University acknowledges the traditional custodians across the lands on which we live and work, and we pay our respects to Elders both past and present.
CRICOS Provider No: 00300K (NT/VIC) 03286A (NSW) RTO Provider No: 0373 Privacy Statement • Copyright and Disclaimer • Feedback • ABN 54 093 513 649