Civics 101: Understanding Where Laws Come From: Resources

A good place to start your research on where laws come from is the San Diego Law Library. Not in San Diego County? Locate your nearest law library through the California County Public Law Libraries website. 

Schoolhouse Rock's "Three Ring Government" - about the three branches of government 

iCivics was founded in 2009 by retired U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O'Conner. Her vision was to re-imagine civics education. iCivics uses games to teach young people how government works by playing different rolls and making decisions as a judge, member of Congress, community activist, and more. Check out their lessons on the:

• Constitution
• Legislative Branch
• Executive Branch
• Judicial Branch

60-Second Civics: 60-Second Civics is a daily podcast that provides a quick and convenient way for listeners to learn about our nation’s government, the Constitution, and our history. The podcast explores themes related to civics and government, the constitutional issues behind the headlines, and the people and ideas that formed our nation’s history and government. 

Citizenship Resource Center: The USCIS Office of Citizenship is mandated by the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (Pub. L. No. 107–296) to promote instruction and training on citizenship rights and responsibilities, including the development of educational materials. 

Whitehouse.gov: Provides an explanation for the checks and balance system of the three branches of government. 

Judicial Council of California: The Judicial Council is the policymaking body of the California courts, the largest court system in the nation. Under the leadership of the Chief Justice, and in accordance with the California Constitution, the Council is responsible for ensuring the consistent, independent, impartial, and accessible administration of justice. Judicial Council staff help implement the council’s policies. 

United States Courts: A website maintained by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, on behalf of the Federal Judiciary. The purpose of this site is to provide information from and about the Judicial Branch of the U.S. Government. 

United States Supreme Court: This is the homepage of the United States Supreme Court. It contains history and traditions of the Court, FAQs, court opinions, and more.  

United States Congress: The official website of our federal legislature.

California Government: The official homepage for the state of California. 

Our Librarians and Staff can assist you in locating these and other relevant materials in our Library. Several of the resources listed below* are available online via our legal database collection as well. Ask a staff member for assistance if required.