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The King Hall USENET FAQ--Version 1.0 [ASCII/Complete]
Author: David Prenatt
Date: Tue, 20 Jun 1995 00:00
Date: Tue, 20 Jun 1995 00:00
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The King Hall USENET FAQ--Version 1.0 [ASCII/Complete] (c) Copyright 1995
Frequently Asked Questions at and About King Hall
by
David F. Prenatt, Jr.
King Hall, 1995 Alumnus
U.C. Davis School of Law
University of California
Davis, CA 95616-5210
dfprenatt@ucdavis.edu
0) PREFATORY QUESTIONS
0.1) What is a FAQ?
A FAQ is an institution on the Internet. It is a file comprised of
answers to Frequently Asked Questions (abbreviated FAQ) relating to a
particular subject.
0.2) Who wrote this FAQ and why?
This FAQ was written by me, David F. Prenatt, Jr., 1995 alumnus of
the University of California, Davis School of Law (King Hall). I
wrote this FAQ because I constantly encounter people who ask me
questions that arise out of my experiences as a law student and
graduate of King Hall. However, I do not speak for the University of
California at Davis or its School of Law. My opinions are my own.
0.3) What information is contained in this FAQ?
The content of this FAQ is inherently unabridged. I am responsible
to no one for its content, and no topic is taboo. However, this FAQ
is intended to address subjects that are relevant to the members of
the King Hall community. Thus, in my personal opinion, certain
topics are inappropriate for this FAQ. Where appropriate, I try to
direct people to other helpful resources. Even so, I assume no
obligation for anyone through the publication of this FAQ. Caveat
emptor.
Please see the table of contents for a complete list of the questions
answered in this FAQ. All versions of the King Hall USENET FAQ are my
personal property and are protected by applicable copyright laws. I
hereby give my permission to anyone who has access to this version of this
FAQ to reproduce the information contained in it for non-profit purposes
provided that proper credit is given to me as the author of this FAQ and I
am notified of any use other than personal use. However, I reserve the
right to revoke this permission at any time.
My sincerest thanks to Steve Langford, Computer Specialist at King
Hall, for his help with my computer needs during my tenure as a law
student at King Hall. In addition, the following individuals helped make
this FAQ possible:
* Deirdre Lynn Leiner, who helped me open my Internet account at
U.C. Davis;
* Peter Nadan, who first told me about the USENET at U.C. Davis;
* Joel Siegel, who founded the ucd.king-hall newsgroup;
* Russ Hersch, writer of "FAQs about FAQs," who inspired me to
write my own FAQ (even though he probably has no idea who I am).
- - - - -
The King Hall USENET FAQ--Version 1.0 [ASCII/Complete] (c) Copyright 1995
Frequently Asked Questions at and About King Hall
TABLE OF CONTENTS
0) PREFATORY QUESTIONS
0.1) What is a FAQ?
0.2) Who wrote this FAQ and why?
0.3) What information is contained in this FAQ?
1) ABOUT THIS FAQ.
1.1) Who wrote this FAQ and how can I reach him?
1.2) What information is contained in this FAQ?
1.3) How is this FAQ organized?
1.4) How can I obtain this FAQ?
2) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PREPARING FOR LAW SCHOOL
2.1) What should someone do to prepare for law school?
2.2) What undergraduate program should someone pursue if he or she
plans to go to law school?
3) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL.
3.1) To which law school(s) should I submit (an) application(s)?
3.2) What do I need to do to apply to law school?
3.2.1) Who should I get to give me references for law school?
3.2.2) What should I include in my personal statment?
3.2.3) How does the LSDAS work?
3.2.4) How do I increase my chances of doing well on the LSAT?
3.2.5) How do I apply for financial aid?
3.3) How do I apply for admission to King Hall?
3.4) How do I apply for financial aid at King Hall?
4) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE AS A LAW STUDENT AT KING HALL.
4.1) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FIRST YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL AT
KING HALL.
4.1.1) Where should I live during my first year at King Hall?
4.1.1.1) Should I move into the graduate dorm at U.C.
Davis, Lysle Leach Hall?
4.1.1.2) Where else can I live during my first year at King
Hall?
4.1.2) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FIRST YEAR
COURSES AT KING HALL.
4.1.2.1) What courses are offered during the first
year of law school at King Hall?
4.1.2.1.1) How should I prepare for my
classes?
4.1.2.1.2) Should I brief my cases to prepare
for class?
4.1.2.1.3) Should I use commercial outlines
and canned briefs?
4.1.2.1.4) Should I use "Hornbooks" to prepare
for class?
4.1.2.1.5) Should I participate in class?
4.1.2.1.6) How important are final exams?
4.1.2.1.6.1) What is the format of final
exams?
4.1.2.1.6.2) Can I type my essay exams?
4.1.2.1.6.3) How do I go about typing my
essay exams?
4.1.2.1.6.4) Can I use a word processor on
my essay exams?
4.1.2.1.7) How important are first year grades
in law school?
4.1.2.1.7.1) When will I find out what my
grades are?
4.1.2.1.7.2) How do I find out what my
grades are?
4.1.2.1.7.3) What if I think there has been
a mistake?
4.1.2.1.8) How important are the courses in
Legal Research and Legal Writing?
4.1.2.2) OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER AS A FIRST YEAR LAW
STUDENT.
4.1.2.2.1) How do I register with the
committee of bar examiners as a law
student?
4.1.2.2.2) Where should I buy my books and
supplies?
4.1.2.2.2.1) Should I sign up for a bar
review course during my first
year of law school?
4.1.2.2.2.2) Which bar review course should
I purchase?
4.1.2.2.3) FINDING SUMMER WORK.
4.1.2.2.3.1) How do I find summer work?
4.1.2.2.3.2) What if I can't find paid
work?
4.1.2.2.4) AVOIDING SOCIAL PROBLEMS AT KING
HALL.
4.1.2.2.4.1) Is it a bad idea to date other
law students?
4.1.2.2.4.2) How do I avoid gossip at King
Hall?
4.1.2.2.4.3) What do I do if people spread
a vicious rumor about me that
is untrue?
4.2) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SECOND YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL.
4.2.1) ON CAMPUS INTERVIEWS (OCI).
4.2.1.1) What is OCI?
4.2.1.2) Should I participate in OCI?
4.2.1.3) What alternatives are there to OCI?
4.2.2) JUDICIAL CLERKSHIPS.
4.2.2.1) What is a judicial clerkship?
4.2.2.2) How do I appply for a judicial clerkship?
4.2.3) SECOND AND THIRD YEAR COURSES AT KING HALL.
4.2.3.1) LAW REVIEW AND MOOT COURT.
4.2.3.1.1) Should I do Law Review or Moot Court?
4.2.3.1.1.1) Which one is better?
4.2.3.1.1.2) Can I do both Law Review and Moot
Court?
4.2.3.1.2) What sort of demands upon my time should
I expect from Law Review?
4.2.3.1.2.1) How do I become a Law Review
Member?
4.2.3.1.2.2) How do I become a Law Review
Editor?
4.2.3.1.2.3) What happens after I become an
Editor?
4.2.3.1.3) What is Moot Court?
4.2.3.1.3.1) Why should I do Moot Court?
4.2.3.1.3.2) What should I expect from Moot
Court?
4.2.3.1.3.3) How do I qualify for a Moot Court
team?
4.2.3.1.3.4) What is the Moot Court Board?
4.2.3.2) How do I complete the Advanced Writing
Requirement?
4.2.3.3) CLINICALS.
4.2.3.3.1) Should I take a clinical?
4.2.3.3.2) What clinicals are available?
4.2.3.4) PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND THE MULTISTATE
PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY EXAM (MPRE).
4.2.3.4.1) When should I take Professional
Responsiblity?
4.2.3.4.2) When should I take the MPRE?
4.2.3.5) Should I try to become a tutor or TA?
4.2.3.5.1) What is the difference between a tutor
and a TA?
4.2.3.5.2) What are the qualifications necessary to
become a tutor or Teacher's
Assistant(TA)?
4.2.3.6) What other courses should I take?
4.2.3.7) SPECIAL PROGRAMS.
4.2.4) COMPLETING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE BAR.
4.3) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE THIRD YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL.
4.3.1) Why is there a third year of law school?
4.3.2) What does one do during the third year of law school?
4.4) What law student organizations are there at King Hall and what do
these organizations do?
4.5) SERVICES AVAILABLE TO KING HALL STUDENTS.
4.5.1) SERVICES AVAILABLE TO LAW STUDENTS AT KING HALL.
4.5.1.1) LIBRARY SERVICES.
4.5.1.1.1) What library services are available to
law students at King Hall?
4.5.1.1.2) What should I do if I encounter
trespassers after hours at King Hall?
4.5.1.2) FINANCIAL AID.
4.5.1.3) CAREER SERVICES.
4.5.1.4) COMPUTER SERVICES.
4.5.1.5) Where can I get something to eat at King Hall?
4.5.2) SERVICES AVAILABLE TO LAW STUDENTS THROUGH U.C. DAVIS.
4.5.2.1) What library services are available to law
students through U.C. Davis?
4.5.2.2) TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SERVICES (TAPS).
4.5.2.3) What computer services are available to law
student through U.C. Davis?
4.5.2.4) What medical services are available on campus?
4.5.2.5) What services are available for disabled law
students through U.C. Davis?
4.6) OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST TO KING HALL STUDENTS.
4.6.1) What special events take place at the law school?
4.6.2) INFORMATION ON KING HALL STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF, AND
ALUMNI.
4.6.3) LAW SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS.
5) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE AT U.C. DAVIS FROM MEMBERS OF
THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
5.1) Where can I get something to eat on or near campus?
5.1.1) What kind of food can I get at the Silo?
5.1.2) What kind of food can I get at the Coffeehouse?
5.2) What sort of activities are there on the UC Davis campus?
5.3) SPECIAL EVENTS ON THE U.C. DAVIS CAMPUS.
5.3.1) Picnic Day.
5.3.2) The Whole Earth Festival.
6) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE IN DAVIS, CALIFORNIA FROM
MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
6.1) How can I find a place to live in Davis?
6.2) Where can I get something to eat in Davis?
6.3) What sort of entertainment is there in Davis?
6.4) What sort of transportation services are available in Davis?
6.4.1) How far is the airport from Davis and how do I get
there?
6.4.1.1) Where should I park?
6.4.1.2) Is there an airport shuttle service?
6.5) LOCAL DAVIS BUSINESSES.
6.5.1) Is there an honest mechanic in Davis?
6.5.2) What banks and credit unions serve the Davis area?
6.5.3) Where can I find a bike shop in Davis?
6.6) LOCAL POLITICS.
6.6.1) Davis, California = No smoking zone.
6.6.2) Davis, California = No snoring zone.
6.6.3) Davis, California = No malling zone.
7) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE IN THE GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA
FROM MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
8) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA FROM
MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
9) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY
ABOUT LIFE IN CALIFORNIA.
10) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE AFTER KING HALL.
11) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY
ABOUT COMPUTERS AND LIFE ON THE INTERNET.
11.1) BASIC QUESTIONS ABOUT COMPUTERS.
11.1.1) Why should I use a computer?
11.1.1.1) Do I really need to use a computer?
11.1.1.2) Isn't it difficult to learn how to use a computer?
11.1.1.3) How can I get the computer training that I need?
11.1.2) Do I need my own computer?
11.1.2.1) What kind of computer should I buy?
11.1.2.1.1) What is the difference between a
MacIntosh and an IBM/IBM Clone?
11.1.2.1.2) What is an IBM clone?
11.1.2.2) What kind of features should I have on a computer?
11.1.2.3) What kind of accessories should I get on my
computer?
11.2) What computer facilities are available to law students at
U.C. Davis?
11.2.1) How do I obtain access to the computer facilities at
U.C. Davis?
11.2.2) Will I lose access to computer services at U.C. Davis
after I graduate?
11.2.3) What should I do to make sure that I still have access
to computer services at U.C. Davis after I graduate?
11.3) What is the Internet?
11.3.1) How can I obtain access to the Internet?
11.3.1.1) How do I obtain access to the Internet from King
Hall?
11.3.1.2) How do I obtain access to the Internet from one of
the computer rooms on the U.C. Davis campus?
11.3.1.3) How do I obtain access to the Internet from my
home computer?
11.3.2) How do I communicate with other people on the Internet?
11.3.2.1) Are there any rules for using e-mail and the
USENET newsgroups.
11.3.2.2) What is the difference between e-mail and the
USENET newsgroups?
11.3.2.2.1) How do I use e-mail?
11.3.2.2.2) How do I use the USENET newsgroups?
11.3.2.2.2.1) How many USENET newsgroups are
there?
11.3.2.2.2.2) How do I figure out which
newsgroups I want to read?
11.3.2.2.2.3) Which USENET newsgroups are of
interest to members of the King
Hall community?
11.3.2.2.2.3.1) What regional domains are
available through the
U.C. Davis USENET?
11.3.2.2.2.3.2) Does King Hall have its
own USENET newsgroup?
11.3.2.3) How do I use the IRC?
11.3.2.4) How do I access the World Wide Web?
11.3.2.4.1) How do I use lynx?
11.3.2.4.2) How do I use Netscape?
11.3.3) What other resources are available over the Internet?
11.3.3.1) What is ftp and how does it work?
11.3.3.1.1) How do I use anonymous ftp?
11.3.3.1.2) How do I use privileged ftp?
11.3.3.2) What legal resources are available on the
Internet?
- - - - -
The King Hall USENET FAQ--Version 1.0 [ASCII/Complete] (c) Copyright 1995
Frequently Asked Questions at and About King Hall
1) ABOUT THIS FAQ.
1.1) Who wrote this FAQ and how can I reach him?
This FAQ was written by me, David F. Prenatt, Jr., 1995 alumnus of
the University of California, Davis School of Law. Until further
notice, you can reach me through my e-mail account at UC Davis:
dfprenatt@ucdavis.edu
or by snail-mail (i.e., U.S. Mail) through the UC Davis Law School.
David F. Prenatt, Jr.
King Hall, 1995 Alumnus
UC Davis, School of Law
University of California
Davis, CA 95616-5210
1.2) What information is contained in this FAQ?
Anything that I, as the author, decided would be of interest to
members of the King Hall community. See Prefatory Question 0.2 for
more information.
1.3) How is this FAQ organized?
This FAQ may be arbitrarily divided into unequal parts wherever
convenient to make a break for two reasons: First, some readers of
this FAQ may have specific questions and do not want to read the
entire FAQ; Second, some computer services are unable to handle
extremely large files. If this FAQ is comprised of more than one
part, the first part should contain the TABLE OF CONTENTS. See the
TABLE OF CONTENTS for more detailed organizational information about
this version of this FAQ.
1.4) How can I obtain this FAQ?
The most current version of this FAQ will be updated and posted once
a month to the ucd.king-hall USENET newsgroup and the King Hall
dayboard until further notice. E-mail and snail mail requests for
this FAQ will be ignored. However, I have requested approval of
this FAQ by the *.answers team, so future versions of this FAQ will
probably be archived at rtfm.mit.edu and available by anonymous ftp.
2) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PREPARING FOR LAW SCHOOL
2.1) What should someone do to prepare for law school?
There is no right way to prepare for law school. However, there are
ways to maximize your chances of getting admitted to the law school
of your choice. An undergraduate degree from a prestigious
university is by far the best way to maximize your appeal as a law
school candidate. Other than an undergraduate education, no
scholastic preparation is necessary for success in law school.
While no scholastic preparation is necessary for law school,
many law students have advanced degrees in various disciplines. In
fact, many of them have already achieved remarkable success in
careers other than the law. In other words, people who are among the
best and brightest apply to law school. As such, most law schools
can pick and choose from whomever they want to have as incoming
students.
Rather than simply pick the elite of the best and brightest,
however, law schools try to find people with unique and interesting
backgrounds to achieve diversity in the law school student body.
Thus, no student is guaranteed admission to any law school,
regardless of the quality of his or her credentials. This comes as
quite a shock to many applicants with impeccable credentials whose
applications are rejected by the law school of their choice.
2.2) What undergraduate program should someone pursue if he or she plans
to go to law school?
An unusual undergraduate major typically maximizes your chances of
admission to law school. However, your class ranking is also very
important because many other applicants will probably have a similar
scholastic background, so study something that you enjoy.
3) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT APPLYING TO LAW SCHOOL.
3.1) To which law school(s) should I submit (an) application(s)?
You should submit applications to as many law schools as possible,
covering a spectrum from the schools that you really want to attend
to the schools that you would attend if no other school accepted you.
I strongly recommend that you apply to King Hall, the smallest
(total enrollment approx. 500) and youngest (established 1969) of
the four U.C. law schools. It is a highly ranked and affordable law
school, approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Also,
graduates of King Hall usually have the number one passage rate on
the California Bar Exam (arguably the hardest bar exam in the nation)
of any law school in California.
3.2) What do I need to do to apply to law school?
Every law school's application requirements are different, so contact
the law schools that you are interested in attending. Most law
schools require that you complete an application form and submit
other information with your application, such as personal references,
a personal statement, and the compilation of scholastic records that
is provided by the Law School Data Assembly Service (LSDAS). The
LSDAS reports your score(s) on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT),
which you should take as early as possible. It is also important to
apply for financial aid and scholarships as early as possible.
3.2.1) Who should I get to give me references for law school?
The identity of the people that provide your references is not as
important as their relationship to you. Some law schools
specifically request that you provide references from former
professors or employer. Whatever your relationship to the people
whom you ask to provide as a reference, pick people who will lavish
praise upon you.
3.2.2) What should I include in my personal statment?
Be as honest as possible. Explain why you want to go to law school
and what you have to offer as an attorney. This is also your only
opportunity to highlight the many things that do not fit on your
application and put your shortcomings into perspective.
3.2.3) How does the LSDAS work?
The LSDAS collects and standardizes your academic records to make it
easier for admissions personnel to compare you with other law school
candidates. Contact Law School Services for more information.
3.2.4) How do I increase my chances of doing well on the LSAT?
There are many commercial courses on the market, but there is very
little that these courses have to offer other than study materials
and basic test taking strategies. There is no substitute for
practicing sample LSAT questions under actual test conditions.
3.2.5) How do I apply for financial aid?
Contact the financial aid office at the law school to which you plan
to apply for this information.
3.3) How do I apply for admission to King Hall?
Contact Carol Pinkney at the Admissions Office at King Hall for this
information.
3.4) How do I apply for financial aid at King Hall?
Contact Lou Bastian at the Financial Aid Office at King Hall for this
information.
4) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE AS A LAW STUDENT AT KING HALL.
4.1) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE FIRST YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL AT KING
HALL.
4.1.1) Where should I live during my first year at King Hall?
Your best bet is to live somewhere in Davis close to the law school.
See Question 6.1 (How can I find a place to live in Davis?).
4.1.1.1) Should I move into the graduate dorm at U.C. Davis, Lysle Leach
Hall?
No, but that's just my personal opinion. I lived at Leach Hall
during my first year of law school, and it was the worst experience
of my life. It was too small, too expensive, and a host of petty
rules were enforced arbitrarily. Most of the people whom I know who
lived at Leach Hall feel the same way. However, some people enjoy
the camaraderie that they experience when they live with other law
students in Leach Hall and/or the convenience of living on campus.
4.1.1.2) Where else can I live during my first year at King Hall?
You can live in one of the communities near Davis, in the Greater
Sacramento Area, in the Bay Area, or anywhere else in Northern
California. See the questions in this FAQ that deal with life in
those regions.
4.1.2) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FIRST YEAR COURSES AT KING
HALL.
4.1.2.1) What courses are offered during the first year of law school at
King Hall?
First year law students (One Ls) at King Hall start classes a week
earlier than second and third year law students (Two Ls and Three
Ls). During this first week (Intro Week), King Hall offers a
required credit/no credit course called Introduction to Law. No one
who has ever taken the final exam in this course has ever failed.
By the end of Intro Week, you will be assigned to a small class
section for the remainder of your first year. Your small section
will have one class together, and this small section will be grouped
with one or two other small sections into one of two large sections
for all of your other classes. With a few minor changes, the courses
that One Ls take remain the same from year to year: Contracts, Civil
Procedure, Constitutional Law I, Criminal Law, Legal Research, Legal
Writing, Real Property, and Torts. Check the course catalog for more
information on these courses.
Most of the courses offered during the first semester are over
at the semester break. However, some courses offered during the
first semester are year long courses, and you will not recieve final
grades for these courses until after the second semester. For this
reason, your first semester grades are not a good indicator of your
class standing; your class standing will be determined at the end of
the second semester of your first year, and it will not change much
after that.
4.1.2.1.1) How should I prepare for my classes?
Even though law school courses are pretty standardized, this still
depends upon who your instructor is for a particular course. If your
instructor for a course has taught the course before, find someone
who has taken that particular course with that particular instructor.
They will usually be willing to provide you with a course outline
that they prepared and be able to tell you what to expect.
4.1.2.1.2) Should I brief my cases to prepare for class?
As a rule, no. Briefing cases is tedious and time consuming, and it
will seldom help you understand the law or improve your grades.
However, this is a personal decision. Some people will brief their
cases and do very well in law school. Find out what works best for
you.
4.1.2.1.3) Should I use commercial outlines and canned briefs?
As a rule, yes. This will save you quite a bit of time and trouble,
since most law school course are standardized. However, it is best
to use an outline prepared by a student who has taken the same course
from the same instructor you are taking. If you do use a commercial
outline to prepare for class, review it to make sure that its not
wrong in some critical point. This happens all of the time to
student who rely upon commercial outlines, and it is very
embarrassing.
4.1.2.1.4) Should I use "Hornbooks" to prepare for class?
Maybe. Hornbooks can help you understand the law. If your
instructor is hard to comprehend, this is an excellent way to bridge
the gap. Many Hornbooks are found in the reserve section of the law
library at King Hall.
4.1.2.1.5) Should I participate in class?
Absolutely not. If you must offer comments during class, limit your
comments to once a class meeting. Instructors may pay lip service to
class participation, but they do not appreciate it when it is
offered. You will also suffer the social censure of most of your
colleagues.
If you are truly inspired to offer your comments, talk to the
instructor after class. You will usually find that many other
students do the same thing. Talk to these students as well. No one
else really cares what you have to say.
4.1.2.1.6) How important are final exams?
In most classes, final exams are your whole grade. Thus, you should
spend most of your time practicing essay exams from previous final
exams that are kept on reserve in the library. You do not need to
know the law on a particular subject to take an essay exam in that
subject. You'll be surprised how much you can learn about the law
this way. It will also help you focus on what you need to know.
4.1.2.1.6.1) What is the format of final exams?
Most final exams are a combination of essays and multiple choice;
some are completely essay or completely multiple choice. The
emphasis is upon essay exams.
4.1.2.1.6.2) Can I type my essay exams?
Yes and you should consider doing so. You will be able to cover more
ground and your exams will be more legible.
4.1.2.1.6.3) How do I go about typing my essay exams?
You need to fill out a form with the registrar's office requesting a
typing room and get your typewriter approved.
4.1.2.1.6.4) Can I use a word processor on my essay exams?
No, and your typewriter cannot have memory capability.
4.1.2.1.7) How important are first year grades in law school?
First year grades in law school are very important, both to law
students and legal employers. Because of this, a dark cloud settles
in over King Hall during the second semester of law school, when
final exam scores for the first semester become available to first
year law students. Few students are spared an insult to their self-
esteem. Even those who finish at the top of their class are
typically confronted with at least one mediocre grade in a subject
that they thought they knew very well.
As important as grades are in the real world, grades are not a
reliable indicator of a law student's knowledge or ability. Grades
are simply an arbitrary (albeit consistent) method of ranking law
students for the job market. Those who finish in the top 10% of
their class at King Hall are courted by many employers, and virtually
everyone else must struggle long and hard to find the job that they
want.
I have heard many proposals for remedying the suffering and
hardship caused by the forced grade curve at King Hall. Some people
have proposed changing the format and/or grading of exams or
abolishing grades altogether. Other people have proposed limiting
the number of resumes students may submit to firms who conduct On
Campus Interviews. My solution is to play the hand that is dealt to
you, and play it close to your chest. No matter what your class
ranking is, you will save yourself a lot of grief with this strategy.
4.1.2.1.7.1) When will I find out what my grades are?
Your grades are supposed to be available about a month after final
exams are over, but some of the instructors are very slow to isue
grades. This will cause you tremendous hardship if you are trying to
transfer to another law school.
4.1.2.1.7.2) How do I find out what my grades are?
When your grades do become available, you can find out what they are
by calling RSVP at (916)752-RSVP. See the Registrar's Office at King
Hall for more information.
4.1.2.1.7.3) What if I think there has been a mistake?
If you think there has been a mistake, you can review your final
exam. It is kept on file for one year. Talk to Nicole Waterman or
Dian Francis in the Registrar's Office for more information.
If your grades are lower than what you expected, this is quite
normal. An A+ effort may only earn you a C+ at King Hall because the
administration imposes a forced curve on the instructors. No more
than 11.7% of the grades can be an A- or above, and your colleagues,
against whom you are competing for these good grades, are highly
motivated and highly qualified students. Many of them have never
received a grade lower than a B in their entire lives. Thus, a 3.5
GPA will probably put you in the top 5-10% of your class.
4.1.2.1.8) How important are the courses in Legal Research and Legal
Writing?
You will probably not learn much in Legal Research, but don't blow it
off (it is the only "easy A" at King Hall); Legal Writing, on the
other hand, is probably the most difficult course you will encounter
during your first year at King Hall. In Legal Writing, you will
learn the skills that you need to be a good attorney. Thus, you
should take Legal Writing very seriously even though it is only a 2
unit course.
4.1.2.2) OTHER THINGS TO CONSIDER AS A FIRST YEAR LAW STUDENT.
4.1.2.2.1) How do I register with the committee of bar examiners as a
law student?
You will find forms for this in the Registrar's Office. Take care of
this as soon as possible.
4.1.2.2.2) Where should I buy my books and supplies?
You should be able to obtain all of your books and supplies at the
the Silo Bookstore. However, you can probably find the books you
need elsewhere. You should post a list somewhere of the books that
you need, and watch for lists that other people post of the books
that they are selling.
4.1.2.2.2.1) Should I sign up for a bar review course during my first
year of law school?
Yes, even if you don't plan to take the bar exam. When you sign up
for a bar review course, you will obtain free materials that will
help you in your first year courses. Also, check into getting a free
bar review course by becoming a sales represenative.
4.1.2.2.2.2) Which bar review course should I purchase?
Most people take BarBri. Given the choice, I signed up for
Barpassers, and later I became a sales rep for Barpassers. My
preference is obvious, but both of these courses are very good
courses. Check out all of the courses on the market for yourself.
4.1.2.2.3) FINDING SUMMER WORK.
4.1.2.2.3.1) How do I find summer work?
Send out resumes to firms that interest you, and do so promptly.
Summer jobs for first year law students go fast. See Jane Thomas in
Career Services for more information.
4.1.2.2.3.2) What if I can't find paid work?
Volunteer. You may also be able to find a fellowship to pay your
way. Another advantage of volunteering for summer work after your
first year of law school is that you will not compromise the amount
of your financial aid during your third year. Check with the
Financial Aid Office for more information.
4.1.2.2.4) AVOIDING SOCIAL PROBLEMS AT KING HALL.
4.1.2.2.4.1) Is it a bad idea to date other law students?
Yes. Problems will arise even in the best relationships. When they
do, your classmates will become involved, and everyone will get hurt.
Moreover, most romantic relationships in law school do not last.
When your former lover is a law student, you must confront him or her
every day.
4.1.2.2.4.2) How do I avoid gossip at King Hall?
You can't, and you are foolish to try. People exchange a lot of
information in law school, and gossip is included with this
information. However, you can avoid repeating unkind and
unflattering gossip.
4.1.2.2.4.3) What do I do if people spread a vicious rumor about me that
is untrue?
There is very little that you can do about vicious rumors. Just try
to straighten out the record with your close personal friends. They
will take care of the rest of the King Hall community when you are
not around.
4.2) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SECOND YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL.
4.2.1) ON CAMPUS INTERVIEWS (OCI).
4.2.1.1) What is OCI?
The term OCI refers to the longstanding practice of various firms to
coordinate their hiring efforts, primarily for second year law
students, through Careeer Services.
4.2.1.2) Should I participate in OCI?
It depends. OCI takes up a lot of time and energy, and you may end
up getting a high paying dead end job with a glass ceiling. About
seven years after law school, many lawyers who go to work for large
firms find themselves out of a job and without enough practical legal
experience to open their own law firm. In other words, be careful
what you wish for.
4.2.1.3) What alternatives are there to OCI?
You can simply apply for the jobs that interest you. For one reason
or another, many job openings are not advertised (judicial clerkships
for example).
4.2.2) JUDICIAL CLERKSHIPS.
4.2.2.1) What is a judicial clerkship?
A judicial clerkship is a paid position as a legal clerk working for
a judge or group of judges. Judicial clerkships are extremely
prestigious and the competition for them is very fierce.
4.2.2.2) How do I appply for a judicial clerkship?
Each judicial clerkship has its own guidelines. Contact the judges'
chambers for more information on a particular clerkship.
4.2.3) SECOND AND THIRD YEAR COURSES AT KING HALL.
4.2.3.1) LAW REVIEW AND MOOT COURT.
4.2.3.1.1) Should I do Law Review or Moot Court?
Yes. Either one or both.
4.2.3.1.1.1) Which one is better?
Law Review is much more prestigious than Moot Court and can open a
lot of doors, but Law Review is also much more demanding on your time
than Moot Court.
4.2.3.1.1.2) Can I do both Law Review and Moot Court?
Yes, at least during the first semester. Alternatively, you can do
Moot Court during your third year, but that would preclude serving on
the Moot Court Board or Moot Court Teams during your third year.
Whether you want to continue with Law Review during your second
semester is the real issue.
4.2.3.1.2) What sort of demands upon my time should I expect from Law
Review?
The first semester of Law Review requires "candidates for membership"
to fulfill office hour requirements, complete a cite checking
assignment, and submit a "good faith first draft" of a "note" or
"commment" on a topic of your choice. However, the second semester
of Law Review is extremely demanding, whether or not you succeed in
becoming a Member or Editor.
4.2.3.1.2.1) How do I become a Law Review Member?
Any second year law student at King Hall can "write-on" as a Member
of Law Review. Each draft of your note or comment is reviewed by two
staff editors who are assigned to you, and you revise your note or
comment according to their editorial feedback. When your staff
editors run out of suggestions, they submit your draft to the Notes
and Comments Editor who is assigned to you. Your Notes and Comments
Editor makes the decision of whether you become a Member.
4.2.3.1.2.2) How do I become a Law Review Editor?
The process is pretty much the same, but new staff editors are
assigned to you, more exacting standards are invoked, and the Editor
in Chief must approve your paper as well as the Notes and Comments
Editor.
4.2.3.1.2.3) What happens after I become an Editor?
After you become an Editor, you review the work of other candidates
and Members as described above. You may also wish to seek one of the
elected positions on the Law Review Editorial Board. Check with
current Board Members for further information on these positions.
4.2.3.1.3) What is Moot Court?
When most people talk about Moot Court, they are talking about the
year long program of appellate advocacy at King Hall. There are
actually several Moot Court programs; appellate advocacy is the most
popular one
4.2.3.1.3.1) Why should I do Moot Court?
Moot Court will help you acquire valuable skills in oral advocacy.
4.2.3.1.3.2) What should I expect from Moot Court?
The first semester of Moot Court involves researching and arguing
both sides of three hypothetical cases on appeal. The second
semester of Moot Court is different in that it involves a single
hypothetical case comprised of two issues on appeal; you also have a
partner who helps you prepar a written brief. Participation in the
second semester of Moot court is also a prerequisite for being on
certain Moot Court teams.
4.2.3.1.3.3) How do I qualify for a Moot Court team?
Many Moot Court teams are selected from the Appellate Advocacy
program, but there are several other teams that are sponsored by the
University. In addition, you can create your own team for one of the
competitions that is not sponsored by the law school. I will provide
more information on the various Moot Court teams and competitions in
a future version of this FAQ.
4.2.3.1.3.4) What is the Moot Court Board?
See the Moot Court Board for information on this subject. I will
provide more information in a future version of this FAQ.
4.2.3.2) How do I complete the Advanced Writing Requirement?
Many people use Law Review or Moot Court, but any professor can help
you complete the writing requirement. I will provide more
information on this subject in a future version of this FAQ.
4.2.3.3) CLINICALS.
4.2.3.3.1) Should I take a clinical?
Yes. It is an opportunity for practical lawyering skills that few
attorneys have, but a clinical should not be used as a substitute for
other more challenging law school courses.
4.2.3.3.2) What clinicals are available?
See Betsy Stuart, Clinical Director, for this information. I will
provide more information on this subject in a future version of this
FAQ.
4.2.3.4) PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND THE MULTISTATE PROFESSIONAL
RESPONSIBILITY EXAM (MPRE).
4.2.3.4.1) When should I take Professional Responsiblity?
Whenever it is convenient, but you do need to pass this course to
graduate from King Hall.
4.2.3.4.2) When should I take the MPRE?
Whenever it is convenient, but you do need to pass the MPRE to become
a member of the bar.
4.2.3.5) Should I try to become a tutor or TA?
Yes. It has tremendous resume value, and if you intend to teach law,
the experience is invaluable.
4.2.3.5.1) What is the difference between a tutor and a TA?
Tutors are somewhat unique to King Hall. All first year course other
than Legal Research and Legal Writing have tutors. There is also a
Resource Tutor. The tutors are paid and their job is to help students
who ask for help in their coursework. They tend to be very good
students who did well in whatever course they are tutoring.
TAs are unpaid positions for Legal Research and Legal Writing.
A law student who works as a TA receives course credit. I had no
desire to work as a Legal Research TA, but I did work as as a Legal
Writing TA, and I found the experience very rewarding, albeit
extremely demanding on my patience and my time.
4.2.3.5.2) What are the qualifications necessary to become a tutor or
Teacher's Assistant(TA)?
Check with Assistant Dean Antonia Bernhard. She is responsible for
hiring people to fill thiese positions.
4.2.3.6) What other courses should I take?
The faculty presents a forum every year to help second and third year
students make this decision. You should attend it. I will provide
more information on this subject in a future version of this FAQ.
4.2.3.7) SPECIAL PROGRAMS.
I will provide more information on this subject in a future version
of this FAQ.
4.2.4) COMPLETING THE REQUIREMENTS FOR ADMISSION TO THE BAR.
I will provide more information on this subject in a future version
of this FAQ.
4.3) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE THIRD YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL.
4.3.1) Why is there a third year of law school?
Apparently, to make sure that your second year isn not your last
year. The first year they scare you to death; the second year they
work you to death; and the third year, they bore you to death.
4.3.2) What does one do during the third year of law school?
Different people do different things, but most of the time the third
year of law school is simply a recapitulation of the second year.
The changing of the guard is effected on Law Review and Moot Court as
new boards are elected to these programs.
4.4) What law student organizations are there at King Hall and what do
these organizations do?
The official law student organizations at King Hall are chartered by
the University and funded primarily through the Law Student
Association (LSA). Each organization defines its own purpose. Last
time I checked, each law student organization had an open membership,
and thus each organization is best defined by those who choose to
become its members. During my tenure as a law student at King Hall,
I belonged to a number of student organizations that I thought were
worthwhile. I also patronized all of the fund raising activities and
social events that interested me without regard for which student
organizations were sponsoring it.
4.5) SERVICES AVAILABLE TO KING HALL STUDENTS.
4.5.1) SERVICES AVAILABLE TO LAW STUDENTS AT KING HALL.
4.5.1.1) LIBRARY SERVICES.
4.5.1.1.1) What library services are available to law students at King
Hall?
Check with the reference desk in the law school library. I will
provide more information on this subject in a future version of this
FAQ.
4.5.1.1.2) What should I do if I encounter trespassers after hours at
King Hall?
You have many options to deal with trespassers at King Hall, but you
are not obliged to do anything about them. U.C. Davis is a public
university, and members of the general public have a right to use the
facilities at the law school to study or do legal research. However,
if someone doesn't have a key to King Hall, they don't have a right
to be in the building after the library closes.
The official policy of the law school is that no one without a
key is allowed to be in King Hall after the law library closes, but
this policy is not strictly enforced. I always treat trespassers as
"uninvited guests" and tolerate them unless they do something that
bothers me. However, if you want trespassers to leave, you don't
need to give any justification. Simply place a call to the campus
police, and the campus police will get rid of the trespassers very
quickly.
4.5.1.2) FINANCIAL AID.
Contact Lou Reed Bastian at Financial Aid with your questions. I
will provide more information on this subject in a future version of
this FAQ.
4.5.1.3) CAREER SERVICES.
Contact Jane Thomas at Career Services with your questions. I will
provide more information on this subject in a future version of this
FAQ.
4.5.1.4) COMPUTER SERVICES.
Contact Steve Langford, Computer Specialist with your questions about
computer services at King Hall. See also Question 11.2 et seq.
4.5.1.5) Where can I get something to eat at King Hall?
Between 9am and Noon during most school days, you stand about a 50/50
chance of encountering a bake sale downstairs. Similarly on school
days, you stand about a 1 in 5 chance that some organization is
offering free food to encourage attendance at one of its meetings.
If all else fails, there are several vending machines on the bottom
floor of the law school.
4.5.2) SERVICES AVAILABLE TO LAW STUDENTS THROUGH U.C. DAVIS.
4.5.2.1) What library services are available to law students through U.C.
Davis?
I will provide more information on this subject in a future version
of this FAQ.
4.5.2.2) TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SERVICES (TAPS).
Contact TAPS for information on parking permits, bicycle licenses,
bus service, and related services. I will provide more information
on this subject in a future version of this FAQ.
4.5.2.3) What computer services are available to law student through U.C.
Davis?
See Section 11.2 et seq.
4.5.2.4) What medical services are available on campus?
Contact Cowell Health Center with your questions on this subject. I
will provide more information on this subject in a future version of
this FAQ.
4.5.2.5) What services are available for disabled law students through
U.C. Davis?
I will provide more information on this subject in a future version
of this FAQ.
4.6) OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST TO KING HALL STUDENTS.
4.6.1) What special events take place at the law school?
Social events are constantly occuring at the law school. The list
below is far from exhaustive.
* The One L Welcome BBQ.
* The Intro Week LSA Kegger.
* The Phi Delta Phi Big Sib/Li'l Sib Mixer.
* Cardozarama--King Hall Talent Show.
* Over the Hump--King Hall "Senior Prom."
* The KHLF Spring Auction--To benefit public interest law.
* The Lorenzo Patino Banquet.
* Various awards ceremonies.
4.6.2) INFORMATION ON KING HALL STUDENTS, FACULTY, STAFF, AND ALUMNI.
[This section is still under construction.]
4.6.3) LAW SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS.
[This section is still under construction.]
5) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE AT U.C. DAVIS FROM MEMBERS OF
THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
5.1) Where can I get something to eat on or near campus?
There are two places to eat on campus that are within walking
distance of the law school: The Silo and the Coffeehouse (the Silo
is a little closer to the law school than the Coffeehouse).
5.1.1) What kind of food can I get at the Silo?
There are several fast food restaurants at the Silo, and the Silo Pub
serves a good sit-down lunch.
5.1.2) What kind of food can I get at the Coffeehouse?
The Coffeehouse has quite a variety of foods prepared the way you
like them.
5.2) What sort of activities are there on the UC Davis campus?
Movies, plays, concerts, sporting events, etc. I will provide more
information on this subject in a future version of this FAQ.
5.3) SPECIAL EVENTS ON THE U.C. DAVIS CAMPUS.
5.3.1) Picnic Day.
I will provide more information on this subject in a future version
of this FAQ.
5.3.2) The Whole Earth Festival.
I will provide more information on this subject in a future version
of this FAQ.
6) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE IN DAVIS, CALIFORNIA FROM
MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
6.1) How can I find a place to live in Davis?
There is no shortage of housing in Davis whatsoever. Just pick up a
newspaper.
6.2) Where can I get something to eat in Davis?
It depends upon what kind of food you want. Davis has a few zillion
pizza restaurants, quite a few Chinese restaurants, a handful of fast
food restaurants, and a smattering of just about any type of cuisine
you might want to sample.
6.3) What sort of entertainment is there in Davis?
Quite a bit for such a small town. Everything from pool halls/night
clubs to live theatre. I will provide more information on this
subject in a future version of this FAQ.
6.4) What sort of transportation services are available in Davis?
The most popular form of transportation in Davis is the bicycle.
There are also two public bus services with several routes in Davi
(one of the bus services is provided by U.C. Davis); the few taxi
services that do exist are almost always unavailable when you need
them. If you are going out of town, you can take your own car (or
rent one) or use Greyhound, Amtrak, or the nearby airport.
6.4.1) How far is the airport from Davis and how do I get there?
The Sacramento Airport is about 20 miles from downtown Davis. From
Davis, head north until you reach I-5. Take I-5 towards Sacramento.
You can't miss the airport.
6.4.1.1) Where should I park?
Short term parking is usually available near the terminal of your
airline for a reasonable price. Circle around the airport once
before parking to make sure that you know where you are going once
you park
6.4.1.2) Is there an airport shuttle service?
The Davis Airporter provides 24 hour service to the Sacramento
Airport. Check with them for more information (reservations are
required).
6.5) LOCAL DAVIS BUSINESSES.
6.5.1) Is there an honest mechanic in Davis?
No comment.
6.5.2) What banks and credit unions serve the Davis area?
Bank of America, Business & Professional Bank, First Northern Bank,
Golden 1 Credit Union, University & State Employees Credit Union,
Union Bank, U.S. Bank, Wells Fargo Bank.
6.5.3) Where can I find a bike shop in Davis?
It is hard to avoid a bike shop in Davis. There are over 2.1 bikes
per person in Davis, and a corresponding number of bike shops.
6.6) LOCAL POLITICS.
6.6.1) Davis, California = No smoking zone.
There is no smoking in Davis by city ordinance. Not in any business
establishment or within 50 feet of any business establishment. The
only place you can smoke is in your own home.
6.6.2) Davis, California = No snoring zone.
There is no noise pollution in Davis by city ordinance. This law was
meant to prevent people from having a loud party, but the Davis
Police department also enforced it against a woman whose neighbor
complained that she snored too loud. The case made national
headlines.
6.6.3) Davis, California = No malling zone.
For years, citizens of Davis have resisted efforts by developers to
build a shopping mall. As a result, most people must travel to
Woodland, Dixon, or Sacramento to find a department store.
7) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE IN THE GREATER SACRAMENTO AREA
FROM MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
[This section under construction.]
8) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE IN NORTHERN CALIFORNIA FROM
MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY.
[This section under construction.]
9) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS BY MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY
ABOUT LIFE IN CALIFORNIA.
[This section under construction.]
10) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LIFE AFTER KING HALL.
[This section under construction.]
11) FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FROM MEMBERS OF THE KING HALL COMMUNITY
ABOUT COMPUTERS AND LIFE ON THE INTERNET.
11.1) BASIC QUESTIONS ABOUT COMPUTERS.
11.1.1) Why should I use a computer?
It is easier and faster to accomplish certain tasks by using a
computer.
11.1.1.1) Do I really need to use a computer?
No. You don't need to use a computer, but many tasks are impossible
to accomplish without a computer.
11.1.1.2) Isn't it difficult to learn how to use a computer?
No. Learning to use a computer is very easy, but this is a very well
kept secret. People who know how to use computers are very
intimidating to people who do not know how to use them.
11.1.1.3) How can I get the computer training that I need?
Admit your ignorance, both to yourself and to the people who offer
you help. Teaching people how to use computers is extremely
difficult, but it doesn't have to be that way. Many people
erroneously assume that they understand how computers work, and this
makes teaching these people extremely difficult. Of course, people
who knows what they are doing may not be able to communicate with you
or they may not be interested in helping you. Avoid these people.
11.1.2) Do I need my own computer?
No. Computers are as ubiquitous as telephones. The only reason you
would want to own a computer is for convenience, much like owning a
cellular phone.
11.1.2.1) What kind of computer should I buy?
You should buy a computer with the features that you want at a price
you can afford. If you are reading this FAQ, then you probably want
a MacIntosh or an IBM/IBM Clone.
11.1.2.1.1) What is the difference between a MacIntosh and an IBM/IBM
Clone?
MacIntosh computers are much higher quality technology than IBM
technology. However, IBM is the standard for computer technology and
is much more affordable than MacIntosh. Thus, if you are on a
limited budget, you probably want an IBM/IBM clone, especially
because whatever you do buy will be obsolete when you buy it.
11.1.2.1.2) What is an IBM clone?
IBM assembles its computers from technology that is available on the
open market. Many companies build IBM clones with technology that
meets or exceed the standards that IBM sets.
standards that IBM sets.
11.1.2.2) What kind of features should I have on a computer?
There is no easy answer to this question, but as a general rule buy
only proven technology and avoid all the bells and whistles. New
technology is inherently unreliable because many bugs are found only
after a product has been released. Members of the U.C. Davis
community have access to a variety of computers through Information
Techology--Campus Access Point (IT-CAP), so find out for yourself
what features are the most useful and reliable.
11.1.2.3) What kind of accessories should I get on my computer?
It depends upon what type of applications you are using. If you are
reading this FAQ, you probably only need a printer and/or modem, if
that, and you can probably get by without either one.
11.2) What computer facilities are available to law students at U.C.
Davis?
U.C. Davis provides computer facilities for all registered students,
including word processing and Internet access. In addition, King
Hall provides computer resources specifically for law students, such
as LEXIS and Westlaw.
11.2.1) How do I obtain access to the computer facilities at U.C. Davis?
Open an ez-account. You can do this at the Lexis/Westlaw room in
King Hall or at any of the computer rooms anywhere on campus.
11.2.2) Will I lose access to computer services at U.C. Davis after I
graduate?
No. Your computer privileges will remain unaffected when you
graduate (this is a very well guarded secret). However, this does
not mean that your ez-account will remain active. If you have a
problem with your account, such as with your password, you will have
to prove that you are still enrolled or employed by the University to
get someone to fix the problem for you.
11.2.3) What should I do to make sure that I still have access to
computer services at U.C. Davis after I graduate?
For a small monthly fee, the Davis Community Network will give you
access to the dial-in computer services that U.C. Davis provides.
There are also a number of companies that will provide free access to
similar services. However, you will probably have to buy your own
computer, your own modem, and your own software.
11.3) What is the Internet?
The Internet is a worldwide computer network. It is used primarily
as a medium for the communication and free exchange of information
and ideas.
11.3.1) How can I obtain access to the Internet?
You can use your ez-account to "telnet" to one of the computers at
U.C. Davis from King Hall, from one of the computer rooms on the U.C.
Davis campus, or from your home computer via modem.
11.3.1.1) How do I obtain access to the Internet from King Hall?
Go to the Lexis/Westlaw room or the Computer Room downstairs. In the
Lexis/Westlaw room, you will find several IBM clones with the Windows
program running. Use the mouse and "double-click" the Win/QVT icon
on one of these computers; then click the button marked "Terminal"
that appears on the screen. If it is your first time signing on to
the Internet, you will probably need some help. Steve Langford,
Computer Specialist, works in the office adjoining the Lexis/Westlaw
room, and it his job to help the members of the King Hall community
with all of their computer needs.
11.3.1.2) How do I obtain access to the Internet from one of the computer
rooms on the U.C. Davis campus?
Every computer room is different. Check with the site attendant.
11.3.1.3) How do I obtain access to the Internet from my home computer?
You will need special software. Check with Steve Langford, Computer
Specialist, at King Hall.
11.3.2) How do I communicate with other people on the Internet?
Communication between individuals on the Internet usually takes place
through the institutions of e-mail and the USENET newsgroups. These
are the most straightforward and easy to use Internet applications.
Live time conversations also take place with the Internet Relay Chat
(IRC) and the World Wide Web provides multimedia communication.
11.3.2.1) Are there any rules for using e-mail and the USENET newsgroups.
Yes. U.C. Davis imposes regulations for e-mail and the USENET.
There are informal rules of conduct that are enforced by the Internet
community, fondly referred to as "Netiquette."
11.3.2.2) What is the difference between e-mail and the USENET newsgroups?
The primary difference between e-mail and the USENET is privacy. An
e-mail message is directed to a particular individual or set of
individuals; a USENET article is available to anyone who has access
to the newsgroup where the article is posted.
11.3.2.2.1) How do I use e-mail?
The most straightforward and easy way to use e-mail is by using a
program called "pine." To use pine, type in "pine" (without the
quotes) once you have signed on to the Internet. Pine is menu-
driven, so just follow the instructions.
11.3.2.2.2) How do I use the USENET newsgroups?
The most straightforward and easy way to use the USENET newsgroups is
by using a program called "tin." To use tin, type in "tin" (without
the quotes) once you have signed on to the Internet. Tin is menu-
driven, so just follow the instructions.
11.3.2.2.2.1) How many USENET newsgroups are there?
There are several thousand USENET newsgroups (more than anyone couled
ever hope to read), and there are more being created every day.
Thus, you have to decide which newsgroups you want to read.
11.3.2.2.2.2) How do I figure out which newsgroups I want to read?
The USENET newsgroups are organized into a heirarchy that includes
regional and other domains.
11.3.2.2.2.3) Which USENET newsgroups are of interest to members of the
King Hall community?
It depends upon the individual, but at the very least members of the
King Hall community would probably be interested in a number of the
regional domains that are available through the U.C. Davis USENET;
people who are new to the Internet would also be interested in a
number of newsgroups found in the news.* domain. You should
subscribe to news.announce.newusers until you feel that you know more
than most of the people reading that group. You will also find FAQs
on every conceivable topic in the news.answers USENET newsgroup.
11.3.2.2.2.3.1) What regional domains are available through the U.C.
Davis USENET?
The ucd.* domain, the davis.* domain, the yolo.* domain, the
sac.* domain, the ba.* domain, and the ca.* domain are all regional
domains that the U.C. Davis USENET can access.
11.3.2.2.2.3.2) Does King Hall have its own USENET newsgroup?
But of course! The ucd.king-hall newsgroup was founded by Joel
Siegel.
11.3.2.3) How do I use the IRC?
To use the IRC, type in "irc" (without the quotes) once you are
signed on to the Internet. There is online help available for the
IRC and many of the people who you meet on the IRC will be willing to
answer many of your questions.
11.3.2.4) How do I access the World Wide Web?
You can access the World Wide Web by using a text-based program, such
as "lynx," or a web browser, such as "Netscape."
11.3.2.4.1) How do I use lynx?
Just type in "lynx" (without the quotes) after you have signed on to
the Internet, and follow the instructions you find on the screen.
11.3.2.4.2) How do I use Netscape?
Contact Steve Langford for the answer to this question. Netscape is
easy to use, but you will probably need help to learn how to use it.
11.3.3) What other resources are available over the Internet?
In addition to the communication and exchange of information that
people accomplish using e-mail, the USENET, and the IRC, people can
download archived information using "ftp."
11.3.3.1) What is ftp and how does it work?
The term "ftp" is an acronym for file transfer protocol. This
program resembles the telnet function, but it is only used for
downloading or uploading information. There are generally two ways
to access a computer via ftp, anonymous and privileged.
11.3.3.1.1) How do I use anonymous ftp?
When you know which anonymous ftp site has the information that you
want, log onto it using the ftp program:
* Type in:
ftp
* You will be asked to provide your username, type in:
anonymous
* You will be asked to provide your password. DO NOT TYPE IN YOUR
PASSWORD! THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE ANONYMOUS! If you wish, you
may type in your Internet address as a return address, but you
do not need to do so. Any entry will let you in to an anonymous
ftp site.
* Type in the GET command, followed by the exact name of the file
that you want, for example:
get ftp-document
This procedure will retrieve an ASCII document.
* If for some reason, there is something wrong with the document
you obtain, start over and set the code to binary as follows:
binary
This should fix the problem. If it doesn't, then the file is
probably compressed, and you need to find out what program you
should use to decompress the file.
11.3.3.1.2) How do I use privileged ftp?
A privileged ftp site requires an actual username and an actual
password. In addition to the GET command, you can also use the PUT
command with privileged ftp. For example:
put ftp-document
11.3.3.2) What legal resources are available on the Internet?
Too many for me to even begin to describe at this time. I may provide
more information on this topic in a future version of this FAQ. Until
that time, there are at least two good places for you to start looking
for yourself, and they are:
* The law.listserv.* newsgroups--an excellent resource for
legal information of all kinds; and
* "Legal Resources Available on the Internet" by Erik J. Heels
(available on news.answers USENET newsgroup).
- - - - -
End of document:
The King Hall USENET FAQ--Version 1.0 [ASCII/Complete] (c) Copyright 1995
Frequently Asked Questions at and About King Hall
- - - - -
* * * * * [New and improved meaningless .sig]
David F. Prenatt, Jr. *--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*-*
King Hall, 1995 Alumnus * To Whom It May Concern: |
U.C. Davis School of Law * *
University of California * I am under no obligation to save |
Davis, CA 95616-5201 * anyone from his or her ignorance *
* and I have no desire to do so. |
dfprenatt@ucdavis.edu *--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*--*-*
* * * * * [New and improved meaningless .sig]
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