Lawyer how-to
How to Research a Legal Question
Good research finds controlling law.
Quick answer
Good research finds controlling law. In short: frame; start; find, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Frame the issue.
Start with secondary sources.
Find statutes.
Find cases.
Check they are still good law.
Write a memo.
Safety reminders for lawyers
- Protect client confidentiality
- Avoid conflicts of interest
- Follow professional conduct rules
- Manage stress and burnout
Key terms
J.D. · Bar exam · Litigation · Plaintiff · Defendant · Motion: see the full lawyer glossary.