I start with the client’s story and let the unique facts of their case guide my research, focusing on precedents that align with the circumstances. ~ Jeffrey A. Preszler, Partner, Preszler Law Alberta
Mastering legal research demands precision, strategy, and access to the right tools. It’s not just about knowing the law – it’s about understanding how to uncover relevant statutes, precedents, and regulations efficiently. In this article, seasoned attorneys and legal professionals share their go-to methods for navigating complex legal landscapes. From breaking down issues into manageable questions to blending structured searches with primary sources, these 13 expert strategies will enhance your research skills. Whether you’re a seasoned legal practitioner or just starting out, these insights will help you stay ahead in an ever-evolving legal world.
- Subdivide Problems Into Trivial Questions
- Focus On Iterative Search Term Development
- Understand The Broader Regulatory Landscape
- Define The Issue Clearly
- Understand Practical Implications Of The Law
- Start Research With Thoroughness And Adaptability
- Begin With A Clear Understanding
- Break Research Into Phases
- Let The Client’s Story Guide Research
- Public Records Hold The Key
- Foster Collaboration And Continual Learning
- Combine Structured Searches With Primary Sources
- Have A Structured Process First
Subdivide Problems Into Trivial Questions
When doing law research, I like to approach it like solving a crossword puzzle, where each object stands for a law, precedent or regulation. It is always my habit to start by subdividing the problem into more trivial questions that require an explicit answer, so I can get a handle on what I’m working on without taking unnecessary detours.
A technique I have found invaluable is to focus on authoritative sources that reflect the way laws are enforced in practice, such as court orders or opinions from practicing lawyers. These tend to highlight nuances beyond what is set out in statute or law. I also develop a report as I go along, distilling results into relevant issues, making it much easier to link the study to what would be done in a case or advisory scenario. This makes research an instrument for devising a plan instead of just gathering data.
Here is my advice to stay ahead of the game: take some time every month to sit in on webinars or roundtables where legal experts provide commentary and interpretations that help frame new developments.
Michael E. Farah, Founder, Realtor and Real Estate Attorney, The Farah Law Firm, P.C.
Focus On Iterative Search Term Development
I think of legal research as detective work, and focus on a combination of iterative search term development, thoughtful reading for below-the-surface points, and following every lead that hints at a workable theory. You can’t be afraid to dig in on the details, because that’s where possible solutions take shape into real, working solutions. I prefer to focus on primary references, but don’t discount secondary references, and even blogs, as a starting point or initial orientation.
David Shore, Senior Patent Attorney, Foley Hoag
Understand The Broader Regulatory Landscape
Effective legal research boils down to understanding the broader regulatory landscape, not just the statutes. Diving deep into administrative decisions and advisory opinions can offer insights that are often more telling than the written law itself. Regulatory bodies frequently issue opinions and rulings that provide clarity on how laws are interpreted and applied. This can be especially useful in new or evolving areas of law, where precedent might be sparse or non-existent. To tap into this reservoir of information, I often rely on specialized legal databases dedicated to regulatory rulings and agency opinions. These databases are invaluable for capturing the nuances and subtleties that aren’t immediately visible in the statutes.
To stay abreast of evolving laws and regulations, I tend to follow industry-specific newsletters and journals that focus on legislative changes. These resources often provide summaries and analysis of new laws or proposed regulations before they take effect, giving an early insight into potential shifts. One efficient method is setting up alerts for specific keywords or topics in these legal publications. It keeps the information manageable and ensures relevance to the areas that impact my practice. Understanding the practical application of these laws, through the lens of regulatory decisions and agency opinions, fosters a nuanced understanding that goes beyond a simple reading of the law.
Andy Gillin, Attorney & Managing Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys
Define The Issue Clearly
An effective approach to legal research starts with clearly defining the issue or question at hand. Utilizing trusted online databases such as Westlaw, LexisNexis, or CanLII (for Canadian law) allows for efficient access to statutes, case law, and legal journals.
Keyword searches and Boolean operators can refine results for precision. Reviewing secondary sources, such as legal commentaries and treatises, can provide context and interpretation of complex legal principles. Cross-referencing primary sources ensures accuracy and alignment with the latest legal standards.
To stay updated on evolving laws and regulations, subscribe to legal newsletters, follow relevant government or legal association updates, and participate in Continuing Legal Education (CLE) programs.
Daniel Abiodun, Paralegal Law Firm, D.A. Commissioning & Legal Services, Barrie Ontario.
Understand Practical Implications Of The Law
My most effective approach to legal research is rooted in understanding the practical implications of the law, not just its theoretical framework. Rather than starting with broad searches in databases, I begin by identifying authoritative sources directly linked to the specific jurisdiction or industry involved. This involves going beyond case law and statutes to include regulatory guidance, government advisories, and even white papers or academic insights in niche fields like healthtech or international law. For example, when researching cross-border issues, I often cross-reference domestic law with international frameworks like UNCITRAL or local regulatory bodies in the relevant jurisdiction. This ensures my research is not just comprehensive but also tailored to real-world applications.
One distinctive practice I follow is subscribing to regulatory consultation updates in industries relevant to my work. Many regulatory bodies invite public feedback when proposing new laws or changes, offering an early glimpse into potential shifts before they are enacted. For instance, monitoring public consultations from organizations like the FDA for healthtech or the Financial Conduct Authority for fintech gives me an edge in understanding the direction regulations are headed. By engaging with these updates, I can anticipate changes and advise clients proactively, often before these shifts appear in traditional legal research tools.
Kalim Khan, Co-founder & Senior Partner, Affinity Law
Start Research With Thoroughness And Adaptability
Start your legal research with thoroughness and adaptability. First, dive into primary sources—statutes, regulations, and case law. Then, expand your knowledge using secondary resources like treatises or practice guides. Tools such as LexisNexis and Westlaw prove indispensable, yet never overlook free resources like Google Scholar for swift insights. Stay ahead by setting alerts on specific legal topics and connecting with bar newsletters and continuing education events.
Research isn’t merely about uncovering answers—it’s about crafting persuasive arguments. Tackle it with curiosity, maintain organization, and employ technology to make your process more efficient. As you hone your skills, research will shift from a hunt for citations to crafting compelling legal narratives.
My top tip? Fully embrace the digital age. Engage with podcasts, online forums, and webinars to capture changes as they happen and to glean insights from legal experts worldwide. This strategy not only enhances your research prowess but also keeps your practice modern and connected—exactly where your clients are.
Taylor Hastings, Attorney, Hastings Law & Counsel, PLLC
Begin With A Clear Understanding
The key to effective legal research is starting with a clear understanding of the issue you’re tackling. Break it down into specific questions, and identify the jurisdiction involved to focus your efforts. I often begin with primary sources—statutes, case law, and regulations—and use secondary sources like legal treatises and practice guides to frame the issue and find relevant precedents. Platforms like Westlaw and LexisNexis are invaluable for efficient searches, but it’s just as important to refine your queries using Boolean operators and keywords.
To stay updated on evolving laws, I rely on a combination of tools and habits. I subscribe to legal newsletters specific to my practice areas and follow key regulatory agencies for updates. Networking with other attorneys is also helpful; informal conversations can uncover trends before they make the headlines. For example, in dental practice transitions, the rapid changes around telehealth laws and corporate ownership structures have required constant vigilance.
One practical tip: carve out 15 minutes a day to skim updates and case summaries. Small, consistent efforts make staying current manageable and prevent knowledge gaps that could impact your practice.
Matthew Odgers, Estate Planning Attorney, Opelon LLP
Break Research Into Phases
I’ve found that breaking the research into phases-first identifying broad principles, then drilling down to granular specifics—yields the most actionable insights. I also reach out to colleagues and tap into legal forums for niche insights, as collective wisdom often highlights overlooked angles. Combining digital tools with human input creates a well-rounded perspective.
Setting Google Alerts for specific keywords related to personal injury law, like “California rideshare accident law” or “catastrophic injury litigation updates,” has been truly beneficial. It automates the process of monitoring news and regulatory changes, delivering relevant information straight to my inbox. It’s a simple tool, but it’s incredibly effective for staying informed.
Jason B. Javaheri, Co-Founder & Co-CEO, J&Y Law
Let The Client’s Story Guide Research
I start with the client’s story and let the unique facts of their case guide my research, focusing on precedents that align with the circumstances. I use platforms like CanLII for precise case law searches and cross-reference those findings with statutory regulations to ensure nothing is missed. Grounding the research in the client’s narrative ensures it’s both relevant and actionable.
Subscribing to email updates from trusted organizations like the Canadian Bar Association ensures I receive timely information on regulatory changes relevant to personal injury law. These updates distill dense legal shifts into bite-sized summaries, saving me time while keeping me informed. It’s a simple habit that makes a big difference in a fast-moving legal landscape.
Jeffrey A. Preszler, Partner, Preszler Law Alberta
Public Records Hold The Key
Public records often hold the key to turning a legal case around, but uncovering them requires strategy and persistence. In one case, public records requests uncovered OSHA violations and Department of Health and Human Services reports that directly supported a neglect and personal injury claim. By piecing together inspection findings and correspondence with regulators, we built a narrative showing repeated negligence that resonated with the opposing counsel, leading to a substantial settlement.
The best approach is to start with the case’s end goal in mind and gather evidence early. Begin by inventorying what you already have—depositions, client-provided materials, and initial reports. Then, identify gaps that public records can fill, such as regulatory reports, police body cam footage, or health inspection findings.
To stay updated, set alerts for regulatory changes, join legal forums, and regularly review updates from government agencies. By combining thorough research with strategic storytelling, you don’t just present evidence—you create an undeniable narrative.
Joe Douglass, Legal Storyteller, Clear Eyed Media
Foster Collaboration And Continual Learning
We have developed a culture of collaboration and continual learning through debate, reviews and sharing information from fields of speciality. Junior and senior attorneys are encouraged to work together closely to exchange insights and challenge each other’s perspectives in order to best represent our clients. My tip for staying updated on evolving laws and regulations is to work in and create an environment of mutual respect and intellectual rigor, this ensures you stay engaged with changing common and statutory law in your state and at the federal level.
Steven Azizi, Founding Partner, Miracle Mile Law Group
Combine Structured Searches With Primary Sources
My most effective legal research method combines structured database searches with a heavy emphasis on verifying primary sources. I start with a broad search on platforms like Westlaw or Bloomberg Law to gather context and narrow my focus. Then, I cross-reference statutes and case law to ensure nothing gets overlooked. For example, when handling multi-jurisdictional cases, I compare state-specific rules side-by-side to pinpoint nuances that might strengthen my client’s argument. Using advanced search techniques, like Boolean operators, has also been invaluable for cutting through irrelevant material and honing in on the specifics I need.
To stay current with changing laws, I rely on a mix of technology and old-fashioned habits. Automated tools like legal tracking software help monitor legislative changes, but I also make it a point to attend legal seminars and bar association events regularly. There’s a lot of value in hearing peers’ perspectives on how new laws are being applied in practice. Additionally, I keep a running list of significant rulings and legal updates, which I review with my team during weekly meetings. This collaborative approach not only keeps everyone informed but also fosters fresh insights into how we approach ongoing cases.
Gordon Hirsch, Founder and Managing Attorney, Hirsch Law Group
Have A Structured Process First
Legal research is all about having a structured process first and being creative second.
1. Foundational work
Step one is clearly defining the issue so there is consensus in terms of understanding exactly what questions you or your team need to answer. Identifying relevant jurisdictions and areas of law button up the preparation phase so you can move forward.
2. Gather Sources
We like to lean into databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis to determine and organize case law, statutes, and regulations. Bounce that data off of official government websites for relevant updates.
3. Add a Secondary Layer of Understanding
Explore legal encyclopedias and treatises to gain further information about the topic. We found that law review articles can also help supplement the process.
4. Validate with Citors
Using Shepard’s or KeyCite will validate cases and statutes as well as assist in discovering related authorities.
5. Analogous Case Research
Whether you are struggling with discovering direct precedent or just want to expand your research, learning about how courts have ruled in similar situations will give you an additional edge.
6. Organize and Annotate
Create a research log or memo that highlights findings and citations. Be sure to add detailed notes on how sources apply to each issue so your research is an interconnected map of relevant ideas/
7. Give it a Once Over
You will want to verify results and check your work. Give one more look at your primary resources to ensure accuracy and check for updated laws and rulings.
Make this process your own. Allow for some creative thought in certain areas and keep everything else formulaic and repeatable. To keep your team sharp by staying updated on evolving laws and regulations, using legislative tracking tools, attending CLE programs, following relevant government agencies, and subscribing to newsletters in your respective sector of law.
Wendy Lindars, Marketing Manager, Munley Law
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