Find more in-depth information about conducting legal research in Case Law and Legislation.
Click on the links below to access the following legal research guides:
Click on the links below to access the following unit-specific guides:
Researching legal issues will generally involve checking multiple sources and there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach as each legal problem will have its own unique considerations. The steps below are a useful guide but you will need to apply your own judgement and legal thinking skills in researching.
Step 1. Analyse the problem – identify the legal issues
Step 2. Plan your research strategy – what are your key sources and key concepts you need to use?
Step 3. Use secondary sources to get an overview of the legal issues
Step 4. Follow leads to primary sources – these are your key authorities
Step 5. Check for currency – are your authorities still ‘good law’?
Step 6. Broaden your search for more information as necessary, from journals, core texts etc.
Step 7. Document your research process as you go.
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