M3 - Learner Manual

2.13. Legal Research

Legal research is an important part of working in any type of legal organisation. Being able to efficiently and accurately identify legal information will enable you to assist your colleagues and your clients. Research skills are essential in doing the following type of work:

·      finding information;

·      increasing understanding about a topic;

·      the provision of accurate legal advice to clients;

·      developing a case strategy for litigation;

·      for raising awareness community or legal education;

·      policy reform; and

·      advocacy work.

Research is an essential part of the work done at all types of legal organisations including private law firms, government (i.e. Legal Aid, Aboriginal Legal Services, Family Violence Prevention Legal Service or the Department of Public Prosecutions) or non-government organisations (i.e. Community Legal Centres). Each organisation will have its own processes, procedures and systems that you will need to follow when you are conducting research.