The Key-Number System was created by West Publishing Company as a method of organizing legal cases. Each point of law is given a specific number, which allows researchers to easily locate all cases pertaining to that point by referencing its number.
The key-number system, developed by West Publishing Company (now known as West), is an indexing system used in legal research to organize American caselaw with headnotes. It assigns a number to a specific point of law, making it easy for researchers to find all reported cases that address that particular point. For example, by searching for the key number 198, a researcher can find all cases related to the Fourth Amendment’s protection against unreasonable searches and seizures. This system is a valuable tool for legal researchers, enabling them to efficiently locate relevant cases on a specific legal issue.
The Key-Number System is a classification system used by Westlaw, a legal research platform, to organize and categorize legal topics and issues.
The Key-Number System assigns a unique number to each legal issue or topic. These numbers are then used to link related cases, statutes, and secondary sources, making it easier to locate relevant legal materials.
No, the Key-Number System is exclusive to Westlaw. Other legal research platforms may use different classification systems or methods to organize legal materials.
The Key-Number System allows you to quickly locate cases and secondary sources that are relevant to your legal issue. By using the assigned key numbers, you can efficiently navigate through vast amounts of legal information.
No, the key numbers may vary across different jurisdictions. Each jurisdiction may have its own set of key numbers to reflect the specific legal issues and topics relevant to that jurisdiction.
While the Key-Number System is a valuable tool, it is important to use it in conjunction with other research methods. It is always recommended to consult primary sources such as statutes and regulations, as well as secondary sources like legal treatises and law review articles.
To find the key numbers relevant to your legal issue, you can start by conducting a keyword search on Westlaw. Once you have located a relevant case, you can review the headnotes, which are summaries of the legal issues discussed in the case. The headnotes will include the assigned key numbers.
While you can create your own system for organizing legal materials, it is not recommended to create your own key numbers. The Key-Number System used by Westlaw is widely recognized and accepted, making it easier to locate and cite legal materials.
The key numbers can change over time as new cases are decided and legal issues evolve. Westlaw regularly updates and adds new key numbers to reflect emerging legal topics and issues.
Yes, Westlaw is a subscription-based service, and there is a cost associated with accessing and using the Key-Number System. The specific pricing details can be obtained from Westlaw’s website or by contacting their customer support.
This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.
This glossary post was last updated: 16th April 2024.
To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.
- Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/key-number-system/
- Modern Language Association (MLA):Key-Number System. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. May 09 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/key-number-system/.
- Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Key-Number System. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/key-number-system/ (accessed: May 09 2024).
- American Psychological Association (APA):Key-Number System. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved May 09 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/key-number-system/
Our team of professionals are based in Alderley Edge, Cheshire. We offer clear, specialist legal advice in all matters relating to Family Law, Wills, Trusts, Probate, Lasting Power of Attorney and Court of Protection.
All author posts