This document discusses case law research and briefing. It begins by explaining that case law refers to legal precedents established through past court decisions, and plays a fundamental role in legal analysis. It then describes primary sources like cases, and secondary sources that provide commentary on cases, such as legal encyclopedias, treatises, law reports, and Shepard's Citations. The document emphasizes that thorough research of both primary and secondary sources is essential to understand the legal landscape and develop strong legal arguments. It concludes by noting sound research techniques can enhance case law research.

1. Case Law
Research and Briefing
By:
Rochak Karki

2. Introduction
● Case law research is an essential skill for legal professionals
and plays a crucial role in understanding and applying legal
principles and precedents.
● Secondary authority and other research sources serve as
valuable tools that complement primary authority, such as
cases, and provide additional insights and analysis.

3. Understanding Case Law
● Case law refers to the body of law established through judicial decisions
in court cases.
● It plays a fundamental role in the legal system, shaping legal principles
and establishing binding precedents.
● Case law provides guidance for judges, lawyers, and legal scholars when
interpreting and applying the law in subsequent cases.
● Conducting thorough case law research is essential for understanding
the legal landscape and developing persuasive arguments.

4. Primary Authority: Cases
● Primary authority refers to the original sources of law that
establish legal rules and precedents.
● Cases are one of the primary authorities that legal
professionals rely on for legal research and analysis.
● Understanding how to navigate and analyze cases is crucial
for effective case law research and briefing.

5. Secondary Authority
● Secondary authority refers to sources that provide
commentary, analysis, and interpretation of primary
authority, such as cases.
● It supplements primary authority by offering additional
insights, explanations, and expert opinions on legal
issues.

6. Encyclopedias
● Legal encyclopedias are comprehensive reference
works that provide an overview and analysis of various
legal topics.
● They offer a wealth of information and can serve as a
starting point for legal research and briefing.

7. Treatises
● Treatises are scholarly works that provide in-depth
analysis and commentary on specific areas of law.
● They offer comprehensive coverage of legal topics and
are often written by experts in the field.

8. Law Reports
● Law reports are publications that compile and publish
court decisions from various jurisdictions.
● They serve as valuable sources of primary authority
and offer a comprehensive collection of cases.

9. Digests
● Digests are comprehensive indexes or summaries of
legal cases organized by legal topics.
● They provide an efficient and systematic approach to
locating relevant cases on specific legal issues.

10. Shepard's Citations
● Shepard's Citations is a comprehensive tool used to verify
the current status and history of legal cases.
● It assists legal researchers in determining if a case is still
good law and provides information on subsequent treatment
of the case.

11. Other Research Sources
● In addition to secondary authority, there are various other
research sources that can enhance legal research and
briefing.
● These sources provide valuable insights, analysis, and
updates on legal issues and developments.

12. Research Techniques and Tips
● Conducting effective case law research and briefing
requires employing sound research techniques and
strategies.
● Here are some tips to enhance your research process and
ensure thorough and comprehensive results.

13. Conclusion
● Effective case law research and briefing require a comprehensive understanding
of primary and secondary authority.
● Secondary authority, such as encyclopedias, treatises, law reports, digests, and
Shepard's Citations, play a significant role in supporting legal research and
analysis.
● These sources provide valuable insights, analysis, and references to primary
authority, aiding in the interpretation and application of the law.
● By utilizing sound research techniques, staying updated with legal developments,
and leveraging reliable sources, legal professionals can enhance the quality and
effectiveness of their case law research and briefing.
● As you continue to develop your research skills, remember the importance of
thoroughness, critical analysis, and staying current with the evolving legal
landscape.

14. THANK
YOU