Words and Phrases is a multi-volume legal dictionary by West. There is a significant difference between Words and Phrases and other legal dictionaries. A typical legal dictionary, such as Black's Law Dictionary, simply provides a term's definition by that publisher, and possibly a reference to a case or statute.

Words and Phrases, however, does not provide a publisher's definition of a case. Instead, every word or legal term listed in Words and Phrases is defined by a court quote. That's right, the court itself is defining the term. Thus, Words and Phrases acts as an excellent case finder.

THE INDEX

This is a dictionary, and dictionaries do not have indexes.

THE MAIN VOLUME

Notice the paragraphs in the image above. They are actual quotes from cases. The court is defining the term for you. So not only have you found a definition, you have found primary authority, as well.

How cool is that?

MORE . . .

Don't forget to check the pocket part or supplement for each sought-for term! If a pocket part becomes too thick, the publisher will send out a separate softbound supplement instead.