Conclusion or When to Know to Stop Research

You’ve done the research and you feel confident of your understanding of the issue. You have isolated the most relevant articles, cases, statutes, and key numbers that were found by different methods of research and which cross reference one another. You’ve carefully read and analyzed relevant Louisiana law. You’ve ensured the cases you are relying on are good law. You can support your position with references to primary law and secondary sources, and counter the arguments likely to be presented by opposing counsel

Knowing When To Stop 1 The Loop Rule –When you start to see the same documents and citations over and over, you should probably realize you are done, especially if you have used the research products of more than one publisher The Economic Analysis or Diminishing Return Rule –When you are investing more in your research than you are getting in return The Zen Rule –When you have been working in an area of the law for a long time, you will be so familiar with the primary and secondary law you will have become an expert and will know when to stop. 1 JOHNSON, ET AL., WINNING RESEARCH SKILLS, West Group, 2002

Now you can write a persuasive memo or brief. This was just one potential path through the legal research process. Every research process will differ. You could have competently explored more or less legal resources depending on what is at stake and the time and money available. You’ll be a successful researcher if you understand how to use the many resources that are available in a flexible and efficient manner. Good job