Put simply, legal research is the process of finding an answer to a legal question. Of course, it's much more complex than that! In-depth legal research involves formulating a clear research question, followed by navigating a rich landscape of resources. You'll explore secondary sources like legal encyclopedias and scholarly articles to gain foundational knowledge and identify relevant primary law—the statutes, cases, and regulations that govern specific legal issues. By critically analyzing these resources, you can build a strong understanding of the law and answer the legal question. This comprehensive approach is what empowers you to navigate the intricacies of the legal world with confidence.
If this seems a bit overwhelming to you, that's okay! You will continue to develop your research skills throughout your entire legal career. For now, you should focus on the basics and forming best practices that will help you in the future. And always remember: our law librarians are here to help!
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