Westlaw
Westlaw is a leading online legal research service and proprietary database, providing comprehensive legal information and tools to legal professionals worldwide.
westlaw.comAbout Westlaw
Westlaw is a premier online legal research service and proprietary database, developed by West Publishing and currently owned by Thomson Reuters. Established in 1975, it has grown to become an indispensable tool for legal professionals across more than 60 countries. The platform provides extensive access to over 40,000 databases, encompassing case law, federal and state statutes, administrative codes, legal journals, treatises, and public records. Its core mission is to empower lawyers, judges, and legal scholars with the most accurate and comprehensive legal information available, facilitating thorough research and informed decision-making.
Westlaw is utilized by a diverse clientele, including law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and academic institutions. Key use cases involve in-depth legal research, citation verification through tools like KeyCite, and the analysis of legal documents. The platform's advanced features, such as the West Key Number System, natural language processing, and AI-assisted research capabilities, enable users to quickly find relevant information, identify legal precedents, and develop robust legal strategies. Benefits include enhanced research efficiency, improved accuracy in legal arguments, and access to strategic insights that can significantly impact case outcomes.
To get started with Westlaw, prospective users can explore the various product offerings, such as Westlaw Edge, Westlaw Edge with AI-Assisted Research, and Westlaw Advantage, each tailored to different needs and budgets. While specific pricing plans are typically provided upon inquiry, interested parties can often request a free trial to experience the platform's capabilities firsthand. For detailed information on subscriptions, demonstrations, or to speak with a sales representative, individuals can visit the official Thomson Reuters Westlaw website at legal.thomsonreuters.com/en/westlaw. The site also provides contact numbers for sales and support, allowing users to connect directly with experts.
Frequently asked questions
What is Westlaw and what does it offer?
Westlaw is an online legal research service and proprietary database that provides access to a vast collection of legal information. It includes case law, statutes, administrative codes, legal journals, and other resources. The platform is designed to assist lawyers and legal professionals in conducting comprehensive legal research.
When was Westlaw founded and who owns it?
Westlaw was founded in 1975 by West Publishing, which was later acquired by Thomson Corporation in 1996. In 2008, Thomson Corporation merged with Reuters Group to form Thomson Reuters, the current parent company. Westlaw has evolved significantly since its inception, incorporating advanced search algorithms and AI-assisted research tools.
What is KeyCite and why is it important in Westlaw?
KeyCite is a citation checking service within Westlaw that helps legal professionals determine the validity of legal authorities. It provides a list of all authorities citing a particular case, statute, or other legal document. This ensures that the legal citations used are accurate and still considered 'good law'.
Who uses Westlaw and for what purposes?
Westlaw serves a wide range of users, including lawyers, law students, corporate legal professionals, and government agencies. It is used for various purposes such as drafting and analyzing legal documents, conducting due diligence, managing legal matters, and staying updated on legal developments. The platform's tools help users streamline research and build stronger cases.
How can I access Westlaw and what are its pricing options?
Westlaw offers various versions, including Westlaw Edge, Westlaw Edge with AI-Assisted Research, and Westlaw Advantage, each with different features and pricing structures. While specific pricing details are not publicly listed, interested users can request a free trial or contact sales for tailored information. The official website, legal.thomsonreuters.com/en/westlaw, provides an overview of these offerings.
Page generated for Westlaw by MyDeetz — capture leads from ChatGPT, no forms.
Get a page like this for your business →