Key legal research databases
Legal research is an essential skill and involves the identification and location of legal material, including law reports and academic journal articles. We recommend you use the databases listed on this page in addition to our general databases and eJournals which are highlighted in the Journal Articles section of this guide.
These subject specific databases are tailored to legal research. They use precise terminology relating to the subject area, making searches more accurate, and include subject specific tools and features. Westlaw UK and Lexis+ are the two major legal research databases available. You will need to be familiar with using both, as each database has unique content and features.
Access to some resources may require a Newcastle University Campus ID & password.
This is not an exhaustive list. Use the UK, European and International Law sections of this guide for further specific legal research databases.
- Cardiff Index to Legal AbbreviationsUse the Cardiff Index to check you are using the correct legal abbreviation for journals and case reports from the British Isles, the Commonwealth and the United States, including those covering international and comparative law.
- British and Irish Legal Information Institute - BAILIIFree access to British and Irish case law & legislation, European Union case law, Law Commission reports, and other law-related British and Irish material.
- Find Case LawA service from The National Archives that provides public access to court judgments and tribunal decisions made in England and Wales from 2001 onwards.
- HeinOnline This link opens in a new window
Large collection of law and law-related materials including a significant library of law journals. The database also provides access to the English Reports, and the reprinted collection of the Nominate Reports, dating from 1220-1867.
- The Law Reports (ICLR) This link opens in a new window
Established in 1865, the Incorporated Council of Law Reporting for England and Wales (ICLR) is the authorised publisher of the official and most authoritative law reports in England and Wales. The Law Reports are available in the Law Library; Westlaw UK and Lexis+ UK currently offer access to the official series. The Law Reports are the authoritative source for published reports of cases that constitute binding precedents in English Law.
- Lexis+ UK
A legal database providing full-text access to case law, journal articles, legislation and commentary from a range of courts and jurisdictions, with unique access to Halsbury’s Laws of England and the All England Law Reports. Content includes coverage of the UK, Europe and the USA with additional international content covering the Commonwealth (Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, India, Malaysia, Singapore and New Zealand).
- Westlaw UK (including Westlaw Edge UK) This link opens in a new window
One of the leading online legal information services combining up-to-date legal information from the UK, Europe and the United States. It covers cases, legislation, and the European Union, and provides access to a range of law journals.
- Westlaw (International) This link opens in a new window
Access to legal materials from Australia, Canada, the European Union, Hong Kong and the United States as well as international/worldwide materials and an extensive collection of law journals.
All databases should have a help section with tips and tricks on how to get the best out of using them, so do make yourself familiar with them. You also may find the following helpful:
- Lexis+ UK Video HubVideos to help you make the most of Lexis+ UK.
- Lexis+ UK Legal Research CertificationLexis+ UK have launched a new and improved certification site. A hub of Lexis+ UK guides, videos and infographics is available, alongside the opportunity to become Lexis+ UK Legal Research certified at Foundation or Advanced level.
- Thomson Reuters Westlaw (Westlaw International) SupportTraining and Support direct from Thomas Reuters, including user guides, video tutorials, and guidance on customising Westlaw International.
- Westlaw UK Support (YouTube)Training videos of how to use Westlaw UK.
- Westlaw UK CertificationWestlaw UK Certification Training gives you an interactive walk-through of Westlaw UK with the option to then test your skills and become Certified which can be listed on your CV.
- BAILII SupportHelp on how to use BAILII
- EUR-Lex E-Learning ModuleThe EUR-Lex E-Learning Module is a free resource which you can access at any time with no need to log-in. Learn how to search for the Official Journal, preparatory Acts, and EU case law.
- HeinOnline SupportA comprehensive user's guide (PDF)
- HeinOnline LibGuidesHeinOnline LibGuides and the database A-Z list are a great way to learn more about database content and interface functionality. These guides cover the Law Journal Library and World Constitutions Illustrated.
You may also find database and resource hints, tips and troubleshooting ideas within our Library Help FAQs.
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