Understanding the law that lead to the creation of genealogical records can be crucial in understanding the record. The law can help explain who was named in a record, why, and how. It can explain who was left out. It can also point us to records we may not have seen yet.
So how do we start?
The Connecticut State Library has an index to revisions of the General Statutes. It doesn’t cover every statute, but the revisions do include coverage of many topics referenced in genealogy research. Probate laws are included.
If you’re looking for more specific coverage, volumes of laws passed in a specific year are available. These volumes appear to be divided by type of act. Some years are covered on HathiTrust. Historical studies of a specific topic or time period can help point to the correct law.
Have reference questions or need help finding a law? The State Library has a Law and Legislation division.
Connecticut Roots by Charter Oak Genealogy 