Legal Research Methodology: A Comprehensive Guide
By FairLex Editorial | February 15, 2026 · 1 min read
Effective legal research is the backbone of successful legal practice and scholarship. This guide covers essential methodologies and resources for conducting thorough legal research in India.
Primary Sources
- Statutes: Acts of Parliament and state legislatures, available through India Code and state law department websites
- Case Law: Judgments from the Supreme Court, High Courts, and tribunals, accessible through SCI, Indian Kanoon, and Manupatra
- Subordinate Legislation: Rules, regulations, and notifications published in the Gazette of India
Secondary Sources
Secondary sources include textbooks, commentaries, law journals, and legal encyclopedias. Notable Indian legal journals include the Supreme Court Cases (SCC), All India Reporter (AIR), and various NLU law reviews.
Digital Research Tools
Modern legal research increasingly relies on digital databases like SCC Online, Manupatra, Indian Kanoon, and Westlaw India. AI-powered tools are also emerging for case analysis and prediction.
Citation Standards
Following proper citation standards is crucial. The Bluebook and OSCOLA (Oxford Standard for Citation of Legal Authorities) are widely used, with some institutions developing their own citation guides.