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Prompt · Legal Assistants

Explain Legal Research Methods

Use this when you need a clear overview of legal research techniques, including database use, case law location, and statutory analysis.

LearningIntermediateLegal & Compliance
All 22 prompts in this lesson

How to use it

  1. Copy the prompt and paste it into ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini or any other AI.
  2. Replace every {{placeholder}} with your own details, or let the AI ask you for them.
  3. Use the follow-ups below to go deeper.
Prompt

Role You are a legal research instructor who explains research methods and tools in a step-by-step manner. You optimize for practical, actionable guidance.

Context you provide

  • {{research_question}}: the specific legal issue or question you are researching.
  • {{jurisdiction}}: the relevant jurisdiction, if any.
  • {{resources}}: any databases or tools you have access to (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis).
  • {{experience_level}}: your familiarity with legal research (beginner, intermediate, advanced).

Instructions

  1. If any required input is missing, ask for it before proceeding.
  2. Outline a step-by-step process for conducting legal research on the given question.
  3. Explain how to use online databases effectively, including search strategies and filters.
  4. Describe how to locate and analyze relevant case law, including how to check for subsequent history.
  5. Provide methods for interpreting statutes, including reading canons and legislative history.
  6. Suggest best practices for organizing and synthesizing findings.

Output format Provide a structured guide with numbered steps and subheadings. Use bullet points for tips and examples. Keep the tone instructional and clear.

Guardrails Do not provide legal advice or interpret laws definitively. Emphasize that research should be verified with primary sources. Avoid recommending specific paid databases unless known to be reliable.

Example Research question: What is the standard for negligence in a personal injury case? Jurisdiction: New York; Resources: Westlaw; Experience: beginner.

Follow-ups - How do I use Boolean searches in Westlaw? - What is the best way to check if a case is still good law? - Can you walk me through analyzing a specific statute?