Use commentary to define & understand issues
Texts
Start by reviewing commentary
As a general rule, it is best to start your research with commentary, such as a text or legal encyclopedia. This will provide an overview of the topic, help to define the issues, refer to journal articles or primary sources, and suggest key words to…
Read MoreEncyclopedias
When and how to use a legal encyclopedia
Legal encyclopedias contain a narrative summary of the law, supported by references to primary sources. A legal encyclopedia may be the fastest way for you to get a reasonably current summary of the law on a certain topic, and to obtain references to relevant…
Read MoreJournals
The role of journals in legal research
If the texts and encyclopedia entries you find are too general, are outdated, or don’t deal specifically with your jurisdiction, concentrate on finding journal articles or continuing legal education seminar papers. If you are writing an academic paper, periodicals research is essential. Journals…
Read MoreWikis, blogs and newsletters
Wikis
A wiki is a website that is created collaboratively using software that allows individuals to add and edit content. One of the best known research sites created this way is Wikipedia. Just as when evaluating the content on web sites, care must be taken when relying on content published…
Read More