Cost Effective Legal Research: Bridging the Gap - From Backpacks to Briefcases

Some databases may be covered in firm's "Overhead" 

Check to see if your workplace has databases that are already paid for (i.e., will only cost your time)

Examples may include:

HeinOnline

OR specialty databases (i.e., pertinent to specific practice areas)

Wolters Kluwer VitalLaw

Some good news:

Browse lower-cost areas in fee-based databases: Westlaw, Lexis+ & Bloomberg Law

AND 

Use smaller databases (w/in Westlaw, Lexis+ & Bloomberg Law)

vs.

Using All Content-All Jurisdiction Databases (e.g., use IL Cases vs. All States & All Feds)

These tips will save $$$$$$$

Check with Librarian OR Information Specialist at workplace (i.e., firm, company, etc.) - some "Big 3" material may already be covered

• Browsing the Home page & Content pages
• Primary law may be free - check firm contract

Why buy a Hummer when you can use a Bike?

• Use smaller (i.e., more targeted and less costly) databases (when you can) (e.g., IL Cases vs. All Feds & All States to find an IL Case) (see next Tab in LibGuide)   
• Will introduce free and lower-cost alternatives as well