Lawcite shows the precedent being applied in ICANN's Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy proceedings by adding links to the text of UDRP decisions wherever the decisions are cited in standard form.
Thus when you open the madonna.com decision, WIPO Case No. D2000-0847, in Lawcite, it takes only one click to jump from the Panel's discussion of sting.com, WIPO Case No. D2000-0596, to the earlier precedent. Curious how many UDRP proceedings have involved the string "ICQ"? Just type "ICQ" into the "Location:" bar and the main window shows results from ICANN's search of domain name strings. Do the later ones cite to earlier *icq decisions? Follow one, such as oicq.com, NAF Case No. FA93668, by clicking "follow" in the Location bar while you're viewing the case. Who's got presidentchoice? Look it up (DeC Case No. AF-0170).
To use Lawcite, type or paste a location in its Location: frame (the top grey bar just below the browser's location bar) and press Enter. "Location" may be the URL to a UDRP decision, the UDRP Case No., or a domain name. If you enter a text string, Lawcite will use ICANN's search facility to present a list of names containing that string, with links that themselves open in Lawcite.
The "UDRP Search" link opens a query window for the full-text search of UDRP proceedings. You may also invoke the search by highlighting words in a decision before clicking the link -- in that case, Lawcite will search for decisions containing the selected words (such as a term or Panelist's name). When "follow" appears as a link in the Location bar, it leads to a Shepards-style list of cases citing the decision you are viewing (a search on all cases citing that decision number in close-to-standard format).
The "full/popup" link allows you to choose between viewing links in the main window (default) or in popup boxes on top of the main window.
Technical problems? If you encounter technical problems, please email wendy@seltzer.com. Several of Lawcite's features use Javascript, so some links may not function properly if you have Javascript disabled in your browser.
Lawcite may fail to produce a valid link if decisions are cited in non-standard format, or because the providers aren't entirely consistent in naming their pages. Lawcite depends on the ICANN list of decisions and providers' pages containing the decisions. The program will attempt a few variations before displaying an error message. Although Lawcite will try its best, this proxy comes with no warranty, express or implied. Any similarities to commercial legal research products are functional and fairly used.
Last modified 1/01
Wendy Seltzer