This guide provides links to subject specific information. To learn how to search for information, see the Help Guides.
Use the menu above or the tabs along the top to navigate through this guide.
Drop-in sessions are available to support your writing, research and study skills. No bookings are required.
Support is offered by Learning Advisers, Librarians, student leaders, and your lecturers and tutors.
Please note: Law and Criminology drop-ins are scheduled each Tuesday from 11-1pm.
When: Monday to Friday 11am-1pm, Weeks 1-13
Where: Ground Floor, Library.
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Before you begin searching for information, make sure you understand the legal situation or problem.
Researching legal issues will generally involve checking multiple sources and there is no ‘one size fits all’ approach as each legal problem will have its own unique considerations. The steps below are a useful guide but you will need to apply your own judgement and legal thinking skills in researching.
Legal Problem or Situation
Step 1. Analyse the problem – identify the legal issues
Step 2. Plan your research strategy – what are your key sources and key concepts you need to use?
Step 3. Use secondary sources to get an overview of the legal issues
Step 4. Follow leads to primary sources – these are your key authorities
Step 5. Check for currency – are your authorities still ‘good law’?
Step 6. Broaden your search for more information as necessary, from journals, core texts etc.
Step 7. Document your research process as you go.