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From Law In Blackletter To Blackletter Law, Kasia Solon Cristobal

AALL/LexisNexis Call for Papers

What is the etymology of the phrase blackletter law? Chasing down its origins uncovers not only a surprising turnabout from blackletter law’s original meaning, but also prompts examination of a previously overlooked subject, the history of the law’s changing appearance on the page. This history ultimately proves a cautionary tale of how appearances have hindered access to the law.