What is WestlawNext?

WestlawNext is a premier legal research platform developed by Thomson Reuters, designed to provide legal professionals with comprehensive access to a vast repository of legal information. It offers a user-friendly interface that allows attorneys, paralegals, and legal researchers to efficiently find relevant case law, statutes, regulations, and secondary sources. WestlawNext is widely recognized for its robust search capabilities, extensive database, and innovative features that streamline the legal research process.

Features

WestlawNext boasts a variety of features that cater to the needs of legal professionals. Here are some of the standout features:

1. Advanced Search Capabilities

• Natural Language Search: Users can enter queries in everyday language, making it easier to find relevant legal materials without needing to know specific legal terminology.
• Boolean Search: For advanced users, WestlawNext supports Boolean search logic, allowing for more precise and complex queries.

2. Comprehensive Database

• Extensive Legal Materials: Access to a vast library of case law, statutes, administrative codes, legal journals, and secondary sources.
• International Coverage: In addition to U.S. law, WestlawNext provides access to legal materials from various jurisdictions around the world.

3. KeyCite

• Citations Analysis: KeyCite is an integral feature that allows users to check the validity of legal cases and statutes by providing citation history and treatment.
• Shepard’s Citations: Users can view how cases have been cited in subsequent rulings, ensuring they are relying on up-to-date legal precedents.

4. Customizable Dashboards

• Personalized Experience: Users can create customized dashboards that display relevant legal news, alerts, and frequently accessed materials.
• Task Management: The platform allows users to organize their research and tasks efficiently.

5. Collaboration Tools

• Shared Workspaces: Legal teams can collaborate in real-time, sharing notes and research findings directly within the platform.
• Document Sharing: Users can easily share documents and findings with colleagues or clients, enhancing collaboration.

6. Mobile Access

• On-the-Go Research: WestlawNext is accessible via mobile devices, allowing users to conduct legal research anytime and anywhere.
• Optimized Interface: The mobile version is designed for ease of use, ensuring a seamless experience on smaller screens.

7. Analytics and Insights

• Data-Driven Insights: WestlawNext provides analytical tools that help users understand trends in case law and legal issues.
• Visualizations: Users can access visual representations of data, making complex information easier to digest.

8. Training and Support

• Comprehensive Training Resources: WestlawNext offers training sessions, webinars, and tutorials to help users maximize their use of the platform.
• Customer Support: Dedicated support teams are available to assist users with any questions or technical issues.

Use Cases

WestlawNext is versatile and can be utilized across various legal settings. Here are some common use cases:

1. Legal Research

• Case Law Research: Attorneys can quickly find relevant case law to support their arguments and strategies in litigation.
• Statutory Research: Legal professionals can look up statutes and regulations to ensure compliance and inform their legal advice.

2. Preparing Legal Documents

• Drafting Pleadings: Lawyers can access templates and examples of pleadings, motions, and other legal documents to streamline the drafting process.
• Legal Memoranda: WestlawNext facilitates the creation of comprehensive legal memoranda by providing relevant precedents and legal analysis.

3. Litigation Support

• Case Strategy Development: Legal teams can analyze case law trends and outcomes to inform their litigation strategies.
• Expert Witness Research: Users can find and vet potential expert witnesses based on their qualifications and past testimonies.

4. Compliance and Risk Management

• Regulatory Research: Organizations can stay updated on relevant regulations and compliance requirements specific to their industry.
• Risk Assessment: Legal professionals can assess potential legal risks by analyzing past cases and regulatory changes.

5. Academic Research

• Legal Scholarship: Law students and academics can access a wealth of legal literature and case law for research and publications.
• Teaching Resources: Educators can utilize WestlawNext to prepare course materials and support their students' learning.

Pricing

WestlawNext operates on a subscription-based pricing model, which varies based on the size of the organization, the number of users, and the specific features required. Pricing tiers may include:

• Individual Plans: For solo practitioners or individual legal researchers.
• Small Firm Plans: Tailored for small to mid-sized law firms with multiple users.
• Enterprise Solutions: Comprehensive plans for large law firms or corporate legal departments that require extensive access and features.

Potential users are encouraged to contact Thomson Reuters directly for detailed pricing information and to explore available packages tailored to their specific needs.

Comparison with Other Tools

When comparing WestlawNext to other legal research tools, several unique selling points and differences stand out:

1. Comprehensive Database

• Rival Tools: While platforms like LexisNexis and Fastcase offer extensive legal resources, WestlawNext is often praised for its depth and breadth of information, particularly in case law.

2. User-Friendly Interface

• Ease of Use: WestlawNext's intuitive interface is frequently highlighted as a key advantage over other platforms, making it easier for users to navigate complex legal materials.

3. KeyCite vs. Shepard's

• Citing Tools: WestlawNext's KeyCite feature is often considered more robust than its competitors' citation tools, providing detailed citation histories and treatment summaries.

4. Analytics and Insights

• Data Visualization: WestlawNext offers advanced analytics features that allow users to visualize trends in legal data, which may not be as developed in other tools.

5. Training and Support

• Customer Service: WestlawNext is known for its strong customer support and training resources, which can be a significant advantage for firms looking to onboard new users.

FAQ

What types of legal materials can I access with WestlawNext?

WestlawNext provides access to a wide range of legal materials, including case law, statutes, administrative codes, legal journals, and secondary sources.

Is WestlawNext available on mobile devices?

Yes, WestlawNext is accessible via mobile devices, allowing users to conduct legal research and access materials on the go.

How does KeyCite work?

KeyCite is a citation analysis tool that allows users to check the validity of cases and statutes by providing citation history and treatment. It helps users ensure they are relying on up-to-date legal precedents.

Can I customize my WestlawNext experience?

Yes, users can create personalized dashboards that display relevant legal news, alerts, and frequently accessed materials, enhancing their research experience.

What kind of support does WestlawNext offer?

WestlawNext offers comprehensive training resources, including webinars and tutorials, as well as dedicated customer support to assist users with any questions or technical issues.

How is WestlawNext priced?

WestlawNext operates on a subscription-based model, with pricing varying based on the organization’s size, number of users, and specific features required. Interested users should contact Thomson Reuters for detailed pricing information.

In summary, WestlawNext is a powerful legal research tool that offers a comprehensive suite of features designed to meet the needs of legal professionals. Its advanced search capabilities, extensive database, and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for attorneys and legal researchers alike. Whether for litigation support, compliance research, or academic purposes, WestlawNext provides the resources and tools necessary to conduct thorough and efficient legal research.