Expert Law Librarians Share Their Top Tips and Tricks for Legal Research

Opening paragraph:

Law librarians are an invaluable resource for legal professionals, providing guidance on research strategies, access to legal databases, and assistance with navigating the complex world of legal information. With years of experience under their belts, these experts have a wealth of knowledge to share. In this article, we’ll hear from experienced law librarians on their top tips and tricks for conducting effective legal research.

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Tip 1: Use the right search terms

One of the most important skills for effective legal research is knowing how to use the right search terms. As Laura O’Brien, a law librarian at a large law firm in New York City, explains: “When you’re researching a legal issue, start by identifying the key terms that describe the legal concepts involved. Then, use those terms to search for relevant cases, statutes, and other legal sources.” For example, if you’re researching the legality of a non-compete agreement, your search terms might include “non-compete,” “restrictive covenant,” and “employment law.”

Tip 2: Explore different sources

Legal research often involves looking at multiple sources of information, including case law, statutes, regulations, and secondary sources such as law review articles and treatises. According to Rachel Lee, a law librarian at a university law library in California, “It’s important to cast a wide net when conducting legal research. Don’t limit yourself to just one source or type of source.” Lee recommends using a variety of legal databases, such as LexisNexis, Westlaw, and Bloomberg Law, to ensure you’re getting a comprehensive view of the law on a particular issue.

Tip 3: Know when to ask for help

Even the most experienced legal researchers sometimes need help navigating the complexities of the law. As Emily Wong, a law librarian at a government agency in Washington, D.C., notes: “Don’t be afraid to reach out to a librarian for assistance. We’re here to help you find the information you need, and we have the expertise to guide you through the research process.” Wong suggests reaching out to a law librarian early on in the research process to get help with identifying search terms and finding relevant sources.

Tip 4: Keep track of your research

Effective legal research requires careful organization and note-taking. As Katherine Smith, a law librarian at a law firm in Chicago, explains: “Make sure you’re keeping track of all the sources you’ve consulted, as well as any notes or annotations you’ve made. This will help you stay organized and avoid duplicative research.” Smith recommends using a research management tool like Zotero or RefWorks to keep track of your sources and notes.

Conclusion:

Whether you’re a seasoned attorney or a new law student, following these tips and tricks from experienced law librarians can help you conduct effective legal research and find the information you need. Remember to use the right search terms, explore multiple sources, ask for help when needed, and keep track of your research along the way. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a skilled legal researcher.