Legal Research: Defining the Question

Effective legal research starts with a clearly defined question, the relevant jurisdiction, the key facts and the date range or legal issue to be examined. The research method and sources should be appropriate to the question and intended use.

What should you consider?

Before beginning, identify the purpose of the process, the country or authority involved, any deadline, and the documents you already have. Ask the receiving authority what form of document, certification or supporting evidence it will accept.

Useful questions to ask

• Which authority or organisation will receive the document or application?
• Are original documents required, or will certified copies be accepted?
• Does the process require translation, witnessing, attestation or legalisation?
• Are there current forms, fees, timeframes or submission rules to check?

How BNS Global may assist

BNS Global can discuss process-related enquiries and help identify information or documentation that may be relevant, subject to service availability and applicable professional requirements.