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VisuaLex User Guide

Welcome to VisuaLex, your intelligent legal research assistant. This guide will help you navigate the workspace, search for regulations, and use the study tools effectively.

Getting Started

VisuaLex is a web-based application. Once the server is running, access the interface through your web browser (typically at http://localhost:5000 or the configured deployment URL).

Core Features

1. Search & Navigation

The heart of VisuaLex is its ability to retrieve legal texts instantly.

  • Search Panel: Use the floating search bar or the main "Search" tab.
  • Input Parameters:
    • Type: Select the source (e.g., "Code", "Law", "Constitution", "Aulmann").
    • Reference: specific act name (e.g., "Civil Code") or number/year for laws (e.g., Law 241/1990).
    • Article: Enter a single number (e.g., "2043"), a range ("1-10"), or a list ("1,5,10").
  • Results: Clicking "Search" fetches the text directly from official sources like Normattiva.

2. The Workspace

The Workspace is designed for multitasking and deep analysis.

  • Multi-Tab Design: You can open multiple searches or documents in separate tabs within the application.
  • Panels:
    • Left - Structure Tree: Shows the hierarchy of the current law (Books, Titles, Chapters). Click any node to jump to it.
    • Center - Document View: The main reading area. Displays the full text of articles.
    • Right - Tools/Brocardi: Contextual information, legal notes (Brocardi), and analysis tools.

3. Study Mode

For a distraction-free reading experience, toggle Study Mode (usually found in the header or view options).

  • Clean Interface: Hides unnecessary sidebars and maximizes the text area.
  • Typography: Optimized fonts and spacing for long reading sessions.
  • Annotations: Highlight text and add personal notes (if supported by your version).

4. Brocardi Integration

VisuaLex automatically tries to fetch explanatory notes and legal maxims (Brocardi) for supported codes (e.g., Civil Code, Penal Code).

  • Check the "Brocardi" tab in the right sidebar when viewing an article to see related jurisprudence or explanations.

5. Exporting

You can export your research for offline use.

  • PDF Export: Converts the current view or selection into a formatted PDF document, preserving the legal structure.
  • Usage: Look for the "Export" or "Print" icon in the toolbar.

Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Esc: Close the current modal or search panel.
  • Cmd/Ctrl + K: Quick focus on the search bar (if enabled).

Note: VisuaLex relies on real-time data from external institutional sites. Availability depends on the status of services like Normattiva.it.