LexisNexis

Definition

LexisNexis is an online database that provides access to a vast collection of legal, news, and business information. It is widely used by journalists, legal professionals, and researchers to conduct comprehensive searches for relevant articles, case law, and other essential documents. The platform offers powerful search tools and an extensive archive that helps users gather accurate and reliable data quickly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. LexisNexis was originally developed for legal research but has expanded to include news, business information, and public records.
2. The database offers advanced search capabilities, enabling users to filter results by date, source type, jurisdiction, and more.
3. It provides access to millions of legal documents including court cases, statutes, regulations, and legal commentary.
4. LexisNexis is often utilized by journalists for fact-checking and verifying information from various sources.
5. Users can set up alerts for specific topics or keywords to stay updated on new information relevant to their research needs.

Review Questions

• How does LexisNexis enhance the research process for journalists compared to traditional methods?
  • LexisNexis enhances the research process for journalists by providing access to a comprehensive database of legal documents, news articles, and business information in one centralized platform. This saves time compared to traditional methods that may involve searching multiple sources individually. The advanced search features allow journalists to quickly filter results by specific criteria, making it easier to find relevant information efficiently.
• Evaluate the importance of accurate citation when using LexisNexis for legal research.
  • Accurate citation is crucial when using LexisNexis for legal research because it ensures that references to legal documents are precise and verifiable. This not only helps maintain the integrity of the research but also enables other professionals to locate the same documents easily. Proper citation helps establish credibility in legal arguments and analyses, which is essential for effective communication within the legal field.
• Discuss how the evolution of LexisNexis from a legal research tool to a comprehensive information resource reflects changes in information accessibility and usage in journalism.
  • The evolution of LexisNexis from a focused legal research tool to a comprehensive resource demonstrates significant shifts in how information is accessed and utilized in journalism. As digital databases have become more accessible, journalists are now able to quickly gather diverse types of information—legal, business, and news—from a single platform. This shift highlights the increasing demand for efficiency and accuracy in reporting as well as the importance of having reliable sources in an era where misinformation can spread rapidly.

Related terms

Research Database: A collection of organized information, usually online, that allows users to access various types of resources such as articles, reports, and data for research purposes.

News Aggregator: A service that compiles news articles and updates from various sources, providing users with a centralized location to access current events and news coverage.

Legal Citation: A reference system used to identify legal documents such as cases, statutes, or regulations, allowing others to locate these documents easily.