This course develops the core competencies of legal research, analysis, and writing essential for effective law practice and legal scholarship. Students will learn to research primary and secondary legal authority, synthesize case law and statutory interpretation, and produce professional, analytically sound legal documents. The course emphasizes both objective legal writing (e.g., office memos) and persuasive writing (e.g., motions and briefs), while instilling critical attention to organization, tone, citation, and ethical considerations in written advocacy.
Learners will be trained in traditional legal research methods and modern digital databases (Lexis, Westlaw, Bloomberg Law), and will gain familiarity with Bluebook citation, IRAC/CREAC structure, and the stylistic expectations of courts and law firms.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
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Conduct comprehensive legal research using both traditional and electronic resources.
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Identify and analyze relevant legal authorities—statutes, regulations, and case law.
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Write clear, concise, and well-organized objective memoranda and persuasive arguments.
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Apply logical legal reasoning using IRAC, CRAC, and related analytical frameworks.
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Use proper legal citation (Bluebook format) and follow professional writing conventions.
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Tailor writing style, tone, and format to different legal audiences and document types.
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Understand and implement best practices in legal editing, proofreading, and self-review.
