"Do I need a computer for law school?"

The simple and practical answer is "yes."  While the School of Law does not require each student to own a computer, we strongly recommend it. Technology is pervasive in legal education and the legal profession, and computer proficiency is an essential skill for both lawyers and law students.

"Should I get a desktop or a laptop computer?"

This question is very common, but it's also difficult to answer. Choosing between a desktop and laptop computer requires you to assess your own needs and learning style. Laptops tend to be less robust and more expensive than desktops. However, they are extremely convenient for note-taking, research, taking exams, and communication.

To accommodate laptop users, the School of Law has outfitted all of its classrooms with electricity at every seat.  Most of the law school building, including the classroom and Law Library wings, is covered by an 802.11(g) wireless network.  Since Fall 2003, students have been permitted to take their exams on computer.

Some factors to consider in deciding whether to purchase a laptop are:

• Whether you can afford one;
• Whether you are comfortable typing your class notes; and
• Whether you already have an adequate desktop that you would like to supplement with a notebook.

Laptop computers are much more affordable than they used to be, and the proliferation of wireless networks in schools, businesses, retail spaces, airports, and other public facilities have made laptops even more useful and convenient.  Consequently, the School of Law's IT department now recommends that students own a laptop computer.  For Fall 2009, we have partnered with University IT to offer two laptop bundles specifically for law students from Apple and Dell.

"What's available to me at Louisville Law?"

Classroom Technology

Technology has become part of law teaching and learning as the faculty incorporate presentations and Internet resources into the classroom experience. Students, as well, are frequently given the opportunity to deliver in-class presentations and develop technology skills that will serve them in their professional lives. Each of the School of Law's eight classrooms is equipped with smart podiums, which include a computer, document camera, VCR/DVD player, LCD projector(s) and Internet access.

The law school's classroom wing is one of several areas in the building covered by the University's wireless network.  Also, since Fall 2003, the School of Law has permitted students to take exams on their own laptops using secure software licensed to the School of Law.

Law Library

The Law Library maintains 22 computers and two network laser printers in two labs reserved exclusively for law students. Lab computers are connected to a high-speed, local area network on which every student is given an account. Your account gives you storage space on the law school's file server.

Each lab computer features the Windows XP operating system; Microsoft Office 2007; Microsoft Internet Explorer and Firefox Web browsers; CALI exercises; and access to Westlaw and LexisNexis legal research services, the World Wide Web and electronic mail.

University of Louisville

UofL provides a variety of resources for students, including computer accounts, e-mail, discounted software and personal computers. The Blackboard system provides instructional resources and an online community for students, and the ULink system is where you can register for classes, manage accounts, view your transcript, and more.  Click here for more information about student technology offerings at the University of Louisville.