Legal Research Methodology

Research Hierarchy

1. Binding Authority (must follow)

   • Statutes in jurisdiction
   • Regulations in jurisdiction
   • Case law from controlling courts

2. Persuasive Authority (may follow)

   • Case law from other jurisdictions
   • Secondary sources
   • Restatements

Research Process

1. Identify the legal issue
2. Determine jurisdiction
3. Find controlling statutes/regulations
4. Find binding case law
5. Expand to persuasive authority if needed
6. Verify currency (Shepardize/KeyCite)
7. Update before filing

Source Evaluation

• Check if still good law
• Note any negative treatment
• Distinguish unfavorable authority
• Document your research trail

Common Databases

• Westlaw
• LexisNexis
• Bloomberg Law
• Google Scholar (for initial research)
• Court websites (for local rules)