By SmartLawAI · · 6 min read

Key Takeaways

  • Define the legal question before starting a search.
  • Specify jurisdiction, dates, and relevant facts.
  • Read and verify original authorities before relying on an answer.

Start With a Clear Research Question

An effective research workflow begins with a question narrow enough to investigate. Separate the facts you know from assumptions, identify the jurisdiction, and specify the period relevant to the matter. This context helps keep a research request focused and makes it easier to assess the response.

A Step-by-Step Research Workflow

Use these practical steps to bring more structure to your work.

  1. Frame the issue

    Describe the question, relevant facts, jurisdiction, and desired output.

  2. Build a research map

    Ask for topics, search terms, and issues that may need investigation.

  3. Verify the sources

    Locate original sources and check that they support the statements attributed to them.

  4. Record your findings

    Keep a research note with sources, unresolved questions, and the reasoning behind your conclusion.

Review Before You Rely

  • Check that cited sources exist and are relevant.
  • Read the surrounding context, not just a quoted passage.
  • Confirm dates and investigate subsequent developments.
  • Separate established findings from issues requiring more research.

Where This Fits in Your Workflow

Research

Explore questions and organize findings.

Drafting

Prepare a clear starting point for review.

Review

Check sources, context, and completeness.

Collaboration

Share findings and agree on next steps.

How SmartLawAI Can Help

Explore SmartLawAI’s legal analysis, research, and document drafting services to find support for your next task. Start with a clear question, refine the response, and review the result in the context of your work.

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