One of my all-time favorite research tools—especially back in my law firm days—is the Almanac of the Federal Judiciary. When I was prepping dossiers on federal judges and magistrates, I always made sure to include reports from the Almanac alongside the usual legal analytics. Why? Because it offers something no database or docket can quite match: candid insights from attorneys who’ve actually appeared before those judges.

These profiles are more than just background and education—they dig into courtroom demeanor, quirks, and professional habits. I still remember reading one entry that warned lawyers never to mispronounce a particular judge’s tough last name unless they wanted to start off on the wrong foot. That kind of detail is pure gold when you’re strategizing.

Here at NYLI, we continue to value the Almanac as part of our legal research toolkit. While it’s not available directly to members, NYLI staff can access it for you through our “behind-the-desk” subscription to VitalLaw. Just another way we’re here to help you practice smarter.