Subject: Electronic Case Citation
Date: Mon, 03 Mar 1997 10:11:44 -0600
From: Chuck Watson <cswatson@cnsnet.net>
To: citation@teo.uscourts.gov

     The time has come for the adoption of a uniform system of 
"electronic" citation. The continued slavery of the legal profession 
to legal publishers (West in particular) is shameful. The "law" is 
public information -- but its effective use now virtually REQUIRES 
the profession (and therefore the public) to put revenue in the 
pockets of the large legal publishers. For once I would like to see 
the government level the playing field and stop acting as the shil 
for large corporations.

     I end my personal diatribe by noting that the adoption of a 
uniform system of electronic citation would do nought more than 
increase the ability of the market to work freely -- and therefore, 
more efficiently. If the established legal publishing interests 
cannot compete in such a market it should be of little concern to the 
judiciary, or the profession at large.

     The legal profession moves forward with its eyes focused firmly 
to the rear -- a study of the past indicates the inevitability of 
change, and the need to recognize change before it forces itself on 
you.

                                   Charles S. Watson
                                   Watson Law
                                   Springfield Il

                                   NEMO EST SUPRA LEGES!