LAW-2049 Massachusetts Legal Research
This is an advanced legal research class that will cover resources specific to Massachusetts practice, including primary sources (cases, statutes, regulations, administrative decisions, etc.), secondary sources (practice materials, treatises, law review articles, etc.), and research tools like citators and Wests Key Number system. Large, comprehensive databases like Westlaw and Lexis will be covered, as well as specialized databases like those from the Social Law Library, MCLE, and Fastcase. The course will also cover research planning and strategy to promote cost-effective and efficient research. Although the focus is on Massachusetts resources, the general research principles and techniques covered will benefit any student who wants to develop their legal research skills. The grade for the course will be based on assignments, quizzes, participation, and research projects (including group projects). Students must have good time management skills as there will be assignments due every week. Synchronous Lecturing will be kept to a minimum so that more class time can be spent on individual and group research exercises. As such, students should note that regular class attendance and participation are required. Asynchronous The asynchronous course will be taught with no in-person or synchronous online meetings. Students will have weekly deadlines to complete assigned readings and view assigned presentations and will be required to interact regularly with each other and with the instructor in the online discussion forum to show their understanding of concepts from the readings/presentations. Students who enroll in this class must be prepared for the unique demands of an online legal research course. To help you evaluate your own preparedness for this type of class consider the following characteristics and resources needed for success. Students must be able to devote approximately 6 hours of work to the course each week, with more time needed for the final project at the end of the semester. Students must be self-motivated as they will be working on most assignments on their own, although there will also be group projects. Reliable computer and internet access are essential, as is the ability to communicate well in writing and a willingness to participate in online discussions.