What is the first step in the legal research portion of legal analysis?

The first step in the legal research portion of legal analysis involves locating the statute that governs the issue at hand. Understanding the relevant statutes is crucial because these laws provide the legal framework that governs specific issues. By identifying the applicable statute, a researcher can determine the rules that must be followed and ensure that the analysis is grounded in legal authority.

This foundational step shapes the direction of subsequent research efforts, such as reviewing case law or analyzing court opinions, which often interpret or apply the statutes. Without the statutory foundation, the analysis would lack the necessary context and clarity. Accessing the correct statute enables a legal professional to identify key terms, concepts, and relevant issues to further develop their understanding and application of the law. This methodical approach prioritizes statutory law, which is vital in forming comprehensive legal arguments.