Subject: Comments on Uniform Neutral Form of Citation
   Date: Sat, 08 Mar 1997 19:41:55 EST
   From: dave.markowitz.jd@juno.com (David S. Markowitz, J.D.)
     To: citation@teo.uscourts.gov

To Whom It May Concern:

     I am writing to whole-heartedly support the idea of the federal 
courts adopting the ABA's proposed uniform neutral form of citation. 
I believe that it would go a long way towards make the law -- which 
belongs to all of us, not the West Publishing Company -- more 
accessible. As it stands now, West has a virtual monopoly on case law 
citation.

     If all American courts were to adopt the proposed system, and 
make their opinions available online via BBS, the World Wide Web, 
FTP, etc., it would *greatly* aid solo and small-firm lawyers. The 
lower cost of access would make it easier for them to compete with 
large name-brand firms. Private citizens would be able to easily 
access new case law impacting their lives, and make it easier and 
much more feasible for them to represent themselves pro se.

     Adoption of the ABA proposal will help everyone, except West, 
and hurt no one, except West. It's a way to make the law truly 
available to the people, and it should be adopted.

Regards,

David S. Markowitz, J.D.
The Law Offices of Kathleen A. Frederick
225 W. Germantown Pike
Plymouth Mtg., PA  19462
Phone: 610.941.4040    Fax: 610.941-4044
dave.markowitz.jd@juno.com
dave.markowitz@airpower.com