This is a brief overview of where to find legal materials, often referred to as “the law.” It is organized by branch of government (legislative, executive, judicial) and by level of government (federal, state, and local).

In many legal situations, more than one type of law will apply at the same time. For example, a federal law might set the minimum standard, while a state law adds more detail or stricter rules. 

Consider wage and hour laws:

• Federal law (Fair Labor Standards Act, or FLSA): sets the nationwide minimum wage and requires overtime pay (time-and-a-half after 40 hours in a week).
• State law (e.g., Maryland): can raise the minimum wage above the federal level and add extra protections. For example, Maryland’s minimum wage is higher than the federal minimum, and the state has its own rules for youth workers, tipped employees, and certain industries.

Federal law provides a baseline that applies across the U.S., but state law can—and often does—go further with stricter or more detailed requirements. That’s why it’s important to look at all the sources of law that may apply to your issue—and how they interact with one another.

If you’re just starting your research, it’s often helpful to begin with a secondary source— such as a legal guide, practice manual, or encyclopedia. Secondary sources explain the law and point you to the primary sources (statutes, regulations, and cases).

Learn more about secondary sources.

Learn more about legal research.

 

What is the Law? from the Maryland Courts

 

Federal (National) Law

Legislative Branch

At the federal level, Congress is responsible for creating laws. Congress is made up of two parts: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Together, they draft and vote on proposed laws. A proposed law is introduced by a member of Congress as a “bill.” Once a bill is passed by both houses and signed by the President, it becomes a statute—a law.

When you're looking for a federal law, you're looking for a statute that was passed by Congress. These laws are published in subject-based collections called codes.

You can read the full text of federal bills and statutes on Congress’s official website.

Learn more about finding statutes.

Learn more about how federal laws are made.

 

Executive Branch

The federal executive branch is made up of departments and agencies that carry out the laws passed by Congress. These agencies have the power to create regulations, which are detailed rules that explain how a law will be implemented or enforced.
For example, if Congress passes a law about air quality, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) might issue regulations about how industries must comply.

Regulations are first published in the Federal Register, a daily government publication that includes proposed and final rules. After they are finalized, regulations are collected in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR).

Learn more about finding regulations.

 

Judicial Branch

The federal courts interpret the laws passed by Congress. Judges write opinions explaining how they applied a law to a particular case. These written opinions are known as case law.

Federal courts are organized into several levels:

• District Courts are the trial-level courts where cases are first filed. There are 94 districts across the country.
• Courts of Appeals hear appeals from the district courts. These are grouped into 13 circuits. Each Court of Appeals hears appeals from the District Courts locating within their circuit. Maryland is part of the 4th Circuit.
• The U.S. Supreme Court is the highest court in the country. It hears a limited number of cases that involve major legal questions.

Learn more about finding case law.

 

State of Maryland Law

Legislative Branch

In Maryland, the General Assembly makes state laws. Like Congress, it has two parts: the Senate and the House of Delegates. When a bill is passed and signed by the Governor, it becomes a Maryland statute.

Statutes are organized into subject areas and published in the Annotated Code of Maryland. This version includes helpful summaries and references to court decisions that have interpreted the law.

Learn how bills become Maryland laws.

Learn more about finding Maryland statutes.

 

Executive Branch

Maryland’s executive branch includes many state agencies and departments that issue regulations to help enforce state laws. These rules explain how laws will be applied in practice.

New and proposed regulations, as well as executive orders and attorney general opinions, are published in the Maryland Register. Final regulations are collected in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR).

Learn more about finding regulations.

 

Judicial Branch

Maryland courts are responsible for interpreting the state’s laws. Judges consider the intent behind the law and apply it to real-life situations. Like federal judges, they write opinions explaining their decisions.

There are several levels of courts in Maryland:

• District Courts handle landlord-tenant cases, small claims (under $5,000), traffic violations, misdemeanors, and some felonies. District Court opinions are not found online.
• Circuit Courts handle major civil cases, most serious criminal matters, and appeals from the District Court.
• Appellate Court of Maryland (formerly the Court of Special Appeals) reviews appeals from the Circuit Courts.
• Supreme Court of Maryland (formerly the Court of Appeals) is the highest court in the state and hears cases that raise significant legal issues.

It’s important to know that each court has its own rules that must be followed. If procedures aren’t followed correctly, your case could be dismissed—even if the law is on your side.

Learn more about finding Maryland case law.

 

Local Government

Legislative Branch

Local governments in Maryland—counties, cities, and towns—also pass laws. These laws are usually called ordinances or resolutions, and they deal with issues like zoning, noise control, and local taxes.

Maryland has:

• 23 counties and Baltimore City (24 local jurisdictions total)
• 157 cities and towns with their own local governments

Each locality keeps a code of its local laws. Some of these codes are online, but many are not. If you're looking for your city or county's code, check their website or contact them directly.

You can also find links to available local codes on the Thurgood Marshall State Law Library's website.

 

Executive Branch

Local agencies—like public works departments or zoning boards—sometimes create regulations to help carry out local laws. These may not be available online, so your best option is to visit your local government’s website or contact your local government directly for help.

Search local government websites.

 

Judicial Branch 

Local governments in Maryland do not have their own court systems. All court matters are handled through the state courts, including District and Circuit Courts. So, even if you're dealing with a city or county issue, it will go through the state’s judicial system.

 

How to Research the Law: Getting Started from the Maryland Courts.