Legal Research Tools

Definition

Legal research tools are resources and instruments used to locate, access, and analyze legal information, including case law, statutes, regulations, secondary sources, and legal commentary. These tools are essential in streamlining the research process, allowing legal professionals and students to efficiently find relevant materials necessary for informed decision-making and effective argumentation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Legal research tools can be divided into primary sources, such as statutes and case law, and secondary sources like legal encyclopedias and law review articles.
2. Common legal research tools include online databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis, as well as print resources like legal treatises and digests.
3. Effective use of legal research tools can significantly reduce the time required to gather relevant legal information.
4. Many legal research tools offer advanced search functions, allowing users to filter results by jurisdiction, date, or specific topics.
5. The ability to cite legal sources correctly is critical in using research tools effectively, as proper citation enhances the credibility of arguments.

Review Questions

• How do different types of legal research tools support the various stages of the legal research process?
  • Different types of legal research tools support the various stages of the legal research process by providing targeted resources for specific needs. For instance, primary sources like statutes and case law are crucial for establishing the foundational legal framework for a case. Secondary sources such as commentaries and law reviews help in understanding complex issues and providing context. Furthermore, databases allow for efficient searches across multiple jurisdictions and formats, making it easier for researchers to compile comprehensive data relevant to their inquiries.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using online legal databases compared to traditional print resources in legal research.
  • Online legal databases offer significant advantages over traditional print resources, such as immediate access to a vast amount of information and advanced search capabilities that can streamline the research process. However, disadvantages may include reliance on technology that can fail or become outdated and potential costs associated with subscription services. Additionally, while print resources provide a tactile way to engage with material, they may lack the efficiency and breadth that digital platforms can offer in terms of real-time updates and accessibility across devices.
• Evaluate how the effectiveness of legal research tools can impact a lawyer's ability to advocate for their clients in court.
  • The effectiveness of legal research tools directly impacts a lawyer's ability to advocate for their clients by determining how well they can prepare their cases. Well-structured research can lead to finding relevant precedents or statutes that bolster a client's position, while inadequate research may result in missed opportunities or weak arguments. Moreover, being proficient in using these tools enhances a lawyer's confidence in court by ensuring they have solid backing for their claims. Ultimately, thorough knowledge of available resources enables lawyers to present more compelling cases.

Related terms

Case Law: The body of law established by the outcome of former court cases, which serves as a precedent for future cases.

Legal Databases:

Online platforms that provide access to a vast array of legal resources, including cases, statutes, and legal journals.

Citation Analysis:

The examination of legal citations to understand the influence of cases and articles on legal discourse and their relevance to specific issues.