1. Select a case
a. Search newspapers for a topic
b. Use Google Scholar Case Law search
c. Use a case from your textbook
2. Analyze the case
To analyze the case you'll need to use a variety of sources.
a. Dictionaries/Reference -- Use correct terms! Check theories and definitions.
b. Articles -- Search for articles in scholarly journals that discuss and analyze the case.
c. JSTOR -- Look for precedent - search older scholarly publications for discussions about previous cases that shed light on present decisions. Note: JSTOR will not cover the most recent cases.
To analyze the case, you'll need to ask and find answers to questions and identify the broad themes such as:
Does this case represent application of common law, statutory law or the UCC?
Does this case represent a combination of criminal and civil charges for the same offense?
Was there negilence involved or was this a case of strict liability?
Was this a contract dispute? If so - what was being disputed and what were the issues at stake?
Was this case an example of an antitrust violation? Why, why not?