In the vast landscape of legal research, finding relevant case law is an essential skill for law students, legal professionals, and anyone seeking to understand legal precedents. Case law, or judicial decisions, forms the backbone of legal principles and serves as a guide for interpreting and applying the law. In this post, we will explore practical strategies on how to effectively find case law.
Start with Legal Databases
Legal databases are treasure troves of case law, offering a comprehensive collection of judicial decisions from various jurisdictions. Platforms like Westlaw, LexisNexis, and HeinOnline provide extensive databases searchable by keywords, case names, or legal citations. Access to these databases is often available through law school libraries or legal research subscriptions.
Use Online Legal Research Platforms
Take advantage of online legal research platforms that aggregate case law and statutes. Google Scholar, for instance, offers a free and accessible option for finding case law. Simply enter relevant keywords, case names, or legal topics into the search bar to retrieve a list of related judicial decisions. You can also find a lot of case summaries on our websites.
Consult Legal Encyclopaedias and Digests
Legal encyclopaedias and digests are valuable resources for locating case law organised by legal topics. Tools like the American Jurisprudence (AmJur) or Corpus Juris Secundum (CJS) provide comprehensive overviews of legal principles along with references to relevant cases. These resources help you contextualise case law within broader legal concepts.
Explore Official Court Websites
Many courts maintain official websites where you can access their decisions directly. These websites often provide search functionalities, allowing you to retrieve cases by date, judge, or topic. Additionally, official court websites may offer supplementary materials, such as court rules and practice guidelines.
Check Legal Journals and Periodicals
Legal journals and periodicals often publish case commentaries, analyses, and summaries. These sources can provide valuable insights into specific cases and their implications. Law reviews and academic journals are especially useful for understanding the broader legal discourse surrounding particular decisions.
Visit Law Libraries
Law libraries, whether at law schools or public institutions, house extensive collections of legal materials, including case law reporters. Consult annotated case reporters and digests to locate relevant decisions and gain a deeper understanding of the legal reasoning behind them. Librarians can also offer guidance on navigating the library's resources.
Utilise Case Citators
Case citators, such as Shepard's Citations or KeyCite, can help you trace the history and subsequent treatment of a particular case. These tools provide information on whether a case has been overruled, affirmed, or cited in later decisions, offering valuable context for understanding its current legal standing.
Join Legal Research Training Programs
Consider participating in legal research training programs or workshops offered by law schools or legal organisations. These programs can enhance your research skills, introduce you to advanced search techniques, and familiarise you with the latest tools in legal research.
Mastering the art of finding case law is a crucial skill for anyone navigating the legal landscape. By leveraging the resources mentioned above and staying abreast of advancements in legal research methodologies, you can effectively locate and comprehend case law, contributing to a deeper understanding of legal principles and their application. Remember, persistence and familiarity with various research avenues are key to successful legal research endeavours.
