Legal Researcher

Working Schedule

• Legal Researchers typically work full-time office hours, with overtime possible. They may have to travel to obtain physical materials.

Typical Duties

• Conduct thorough legal research using statutes, codes, casebooks, court opinions, rules, records, regulations, journals, handbooks, databases, and dictionaries
• Analyze and summarize legal information to support attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, and depositions
• Prepare legal research reports, memoranda, briefs, and other documents
• Work closely with attorneys, providing expert insights and recommendations
• Review legal catalogs and stay updated with new resources
• Borrow materials from libraries to supplement research resources
• Traveling to various sites to obtain legal documents or materials
• Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive legal information and adhere to ethical standards

Additional Responsibilities

• Train and supervise assistants, staff, and volunteers, as needed
• Stay current with developments in legal research techniques and technologies

Soft Skills

• Adaptability
• Analytical
• Attention to detail
• Collaboration
• Communication skills
• Coordination
• Critical thinking
• Decision-making
• Initiative
• Interpersonal skills
• Organization skills
• Perceptiveness
• Problem-Solving
• Research skills
• Sound judgment
• Time Management

Technical Skills

• Ability to analyze legal documents and regulatory information
• Familiarity with court docket systems
• Knowledge of research methodologies, legal software, and online resources (e.g., HeinOnline, JSTOR, PACER, Westlaw, LexisNexis, etc.)
• Legal citation and referencing styles
• Strong legal writing skills
• Using law library tools and databases 

• Corporate legal departments
• Government agencies
• Law firms
• Law schools
• Public law libraries

Legal Researchers are vital members of the legal profession! They play a crucial role in assisting lawyers by providing valuable support in various aspects of legal research. Because their help is so important, they must stay current with legal developments and emerging technologies, which requires continuous learning.

They sometimes work under tight deadlines while juggling multiple tasks at once. Due to the nature of their work, they have to maintain strict confidentiality and ethical standards. 

Legal Researchers increasingly use technology to enhance their efficiency and effectiveness.

For example, artificial intelligence (AI) can be used for predictive analytics, such as reviewing past case outcomes to predict future case results. AI-driven tools also help researchers understand complex legal texts and can automate the review of legal materials, reducing the time spent on these tasks​.

Another growing trend is the development of digital libraries which can store vast amounts of resources, accessible 24/7. 

Legal Researchers likely enjoyed reading and doing in-depth research into complex topics. They may have been highly organized growing up, with a keen interest in helping others. Many participated in debate clubs, library clubs, or similar activities.