Using a single character wildcard (an asterisk) and/or a multiple character wildcard (an exclamation point) helps you capture all word variations – even those you might not have envisioned. Consider including single and multiple character wildcards when relevant.It is best to group the alternatives together within a parenthetical, connected by OR between each term. Include in your search all possible terms the court might use, or alternate ways the court may address an issue.Make sure you know which terms and connectors are utilized by the platform you are working on and what they mean – there is no uniform standard set of terms of connectors utilized by all platforms.It is possible to search only within a practice area, jurisdiction, secondary resource, or other grouping of materials. Search the appropriate source or section of the research platform.Make sure you do not have typos in your search string.If your initial search was much too broad or much too narrow, you do not have to worry about immediately running a new and improved search.įollow these tips when beginning a search to ensure that you do not miss relevant materials: The good news? Bloomberg Law does not charge by the search for court opinion searches. Using Boolean searching gives you better control over your search and greater confidence in your results. It is also harder to efficiently and effectively manipulate your search terms to zero in on the results you want. This makes it harder to interpret whether the search is giving you everything you need. Why a certain case is ranked as it is may not be obvious. When you conduct a natural language search, the search engine applies algorithms to rank your results. Although many legal research platforms, including Bloomberg Law, offer natural language searching, terms and connectors (also called Boolean) searching is still a vital legal research skill and should be used when searching across court opinions, dockets, Points of Law, and other primary and secondary sources.
#COMPLEX BOOLEAN SEARCH TOOLS HOW TO#
How to optimize your search.Ĭrafting searches is a critical skill when it comes to legal research. Who are the relevant parties? Where is the jurisdiction? Who is the judge? Note all case details that come to mind. Keep in mind the burden of proof for different kinds of motions.įinally, but no less important, assess the key facts of the case. Is the research to be used for a pending motion? If you are helping with a motion for summary judgment, for example, your goal is to find cases that are in the same procedural posture as yours and come out favorably for your side (i.e., if your client is the one filing the motion, try to find cases where a motion for summary judgment was granted, not denied). It’s also important to consider how your legal research will be used. Ask about background case information, logistical issues such as filing deadlines, the client/matter number, and billing instructions. At the outset, ensure that you understand your goal by asking questions and taking careful notes. Beginning your legal research will look different for each assignment.
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