FAQs
How do I use this site?
The State Election Law eBenchbook is a first-of-its-kind legal research resource, collecting state election-related statutes and regulations, as well as case law (2019–present) and advisory opinions.
Navigation
Selecting a state from either the interactive map or from the list below will take the user to that state homepage. Here, the state’s available content is organized into individual navigation menus, allowing users to select a specific type of content (such as recent cases) and narrow research accordingly.
Buttons at the top of the website allow users to navigate quickly to Advanced Search, Additional Resources, and information About the Project.
Researching by Topic
The eBenchbook categorizes and organizes available content by topic, enabling the user to connect to content across all states on that topic. Selecting a topic in the search bar without also selecting a state or content type will provide the user with all available content in all fifty states on that particular topic. Within a state homepage, users can navigate to Browse Topics and view available content in that state, organized by topic. Selecting topics and subtopics in the left-hand navigation menu will narrow results, allowing the user to begin research on a topic with all cases, statutes, regulations, and advisory opinions on the selected topic contained in one place.
Where can I find more ELP resources & tools?
The eBenchbook is connected to the universe of Election Law Program resources. To gain access to these resources, navigate to the top of the website and click “Additional Resources” (this button is also available at the bottom of the website page as well). Here, users will find links and downloads for election law resources from the ELP and its collaborating partners in the elections space. Below are brief descriptions of the available ELP resources:
The State Election Law Volume Assessment tool (SELVA): A collection and visualization of state and federal election litigation volume throughout the states, updated monthly.
The Election Law Manual : A non-state-specific comprehensive guide covering federal and state election law, litigation, and judicial norms on election law dispute resolution.
State of Elections Blog : Election Law students at William & Mary Law School have been contributing blog posts on state election topics (election litigation, legislative activity and so forth) since 2011.
What should I do if I see an error or wish to contribute to the eBenchbook site?
The ELP is committed to consistently improving, deepening, and expanding the eBenchbook. To accomplish that, a major goal of the eBenchbook project is to engage election law communities by expanding the number of election experts contributing to the site. Moreover, if an error, misprint, or other issue is noticed, the ELP will take necessary action to remedy the problem.
If you are interested in contributing to the eBenchbook directly or if you notice an error, we encourage you to contact us at ebenchbook@wm.edu.