The 21 Best Free Legal Research Tools For Better Discovery Of 2025
10 Best Free Legal Research Tools Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 21 tools reviewed.
Navigating the legal landscape can be tough, especially when you're trying to do it on a budget. You're likely facing tight deadlines, complex cases, and the pressure to stay informed without breaking the bank. That's where free legal research tools come in—they offer a way to access vital information without the hefty price tag.
In my experience, these tools can be a lifesaver for your team, providing the resources you need without the financial strain. In this article, I'll share my top picks for free legal research tools, giving you an unbiased look at what's available. You'll find solutions that fit various needs, whether it's for a small firm or a larger practice.
Why You Can Trust Us
Best Free Legal Research Tools Summary
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for small law firms | Free demo available | From $149/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for legal case tracking | 7-day free trial | From $49/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 3 | Best for personal injury attorneys | Not available | From $79/user/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for legal practice management | 10-day free trial + free demo available | From $39/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 5 | Best for all-in-one legal management | 7-day free trial | From $59/user/month (billed monthly) | Website | |
| 6 | Best for legal marketing automation | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for timeline visualization of cases | 14-day free trial | From $30/user/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 8 | Best for authoritative legal research | 7-day free trial | From $89/user/month | Website | |
| 9 | Best for criminal case management | Not available | From $99/user/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best for document and workflow automation | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website |
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CARET Legal
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
Redactable
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Mitratech TAP Workflow Automation
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.2
Best Free Legal Research Tools Reviews
Smokeball is a cloud-based legal productivity software designed for small law firms. It offers case management, time tracking, billing, and legal forms features, and because it's tailored to the needs of smaller firms, it's my top pick for that category.
Why I Picked Smokeball:
Smokeball appealed to me because of its focus on small law firms. In comparison to other tools, it uniquely understands and addresses the requirements of smaller legal teams. With a user-friendly interface, comprehensive features, and a keen understanding of a small law firm's needs, I believe Smokeball is best suited for small law firms.
Standout features and integrations:
Smokeball provides full case management capabilities, including document automation and robust task management. Additionally, it has an AutoTime feature that passively tracks work to ensure accurate billing. For integrations, Smokeball seamlessly syncs with Microsoft Word, Outlook, and QuickBooks to further streamline operations.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integrations with popular software like Microsoft Word, Outlook, and QuickBooks
- Comprehensive case management features
- Designed specifically for small law firms
Cons:
- May not scale well for larger law firms
- Pricing information is not publicly listed
- No free tier or trial
Clio is a cloud-based legal practice management platform that facilitates client intake, case management, document management, tracking, and billing. Its proficiency in legal case tracking aligns with the needs of law firms that require an efficient, reliable tool for managing their caseloads.
Why I Picked Clio:
Choosing Clio for this list was a clear decision, given its emphasis on case tracking. What makes Clio different is its combination of intuitive user interface and comprehensive case-tracking features, which can lead to significant improvements in productivity for law firms. Therefore, I believe Clio is "Best for legal case tracking" for its potent blend of usability and thorough case oversight.
What do you get for free?
Clio offers a free trial of its software, but there is no permanently free plan. The free trial enables potential users to explore the full functionality of Clio's legal practice management suite.
Standout features and integrations:
Clio's primary strength lies in its comprehensive case tracking system, which seamlessly links with its document management and billing tools. Additionally, its client intake feature simplifies the process of onboarding new clients and managing their information. Clio offers integrations with a wide variety of third-party applications like FastCase and Casetext, including QuickBooks for accounting, Microsoft 365 for productivity, and Dropbox for document storage.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface
- Robust integrations with essential third-party apps
- Advanced case tracking system
Cons:
- Some advanced features only available in higher-tier plans
- Pricing may be high for small firms or solo practitioners
- Does not offer a permanent free plan
CASEpeer is a comprehensive case management software explicitly designed for personal injury attorneys. The tool manages every aspect of personal injury cases, from intake through settlement or trial. Given its specific design and functionalities that cater to the unique needs of personal injury cases, it's best suited for personal injury attorneys.
Why I Picked CASEpeer:
I selected CASEpeer for the list as it specifically targets personal injury lawyers, making it distinct in the crowded field of case management software. Its specialized design allows it to provide industry-specific solutions which other tools cannot offer. I firmly believe CASEpeer stands as the "Best for personal injury attorneys" because of its customizability, dedicated features, and intuitive workflow that meets the unique demands of personal injury practices.
Standout features and integrations:
CASEpeer comes with robust features, including intake tracking, task management, case timelines, and settlement tools. Moreover, the software boasts a dynamic reporting feature that provides data-driven insights for law firms.
In terms of integrations, CASEpeer excels by connecting with various legal tech tools. Notably, it integrates with software like QuickBooks for accounting, LexisNexis, and Google Calendar, enhancing its overall utility.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integration with various legal technology tools
- Dynamic reporting feature
- Specific design for personal injury attorneys
Cons:
- The interface may have a steep learning curve for some users
- Requires a minimum of three users
- No free plan or trial version
MyCase is a comprehensive legal practice management software that provides tools for case management, time tracking, billing, and client communication. With its robust and intuitive design, it stands as an optimal solution for law firms needing a centralized platform for practice management.
Why I Picked MyCase:
The selection of MyCase comes from its comprehensive approach to managing legal practice. Its all-in-one solution differentiates it in the market, covering the entirety of a law firm's daily operations. I find MyCase to be "Best for legal practice management" due to this encompassing approach, making law firms' work more streamlined and efficient.
What do you get for free?
MyCase offers a free trial of its services, providing a taste of its full suite of features. However, there is no permanent free plan available.
Standout features and integrations:
MyCase excels in its case management features, which allow for efficient organization and tracking of cases. It also offers excellent time tracking and billing capabilities, making it easy to manage billable hours and client invoicing.
In terms of integrations, MyCase has a smooth interface with QuickBooks for streamlined financial management. It also provides a secure client portal for efficient communication and document sharing.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integration with QuickBooks and secure client portal
- Efficient case management and billing capabilities
- Comprehensive suite of tools for practice management
Cons:
- May take time for new users to navigate due to the extensive feature set
- Pricing is billed annually
- No permanent free plan available
PracticePanther is a comprehensive legal practice management software that covers a wide range of needs, from case management to billing. Providing an all-in-one solution, it's ideal for legal practices seeking to streamline their operations and have all crucial tools in one platform.
Why I Picked PracticePanther:
I selected PracticePanther for this list because of its comprehensive offering of features necessary for legal management. It stands out due to its unified approach, combining case management, client communication, billing, and more into a single platform. Thus, I consider PracticePanther as the "Best for all-in-one legal management" due to its wide feature set that caters to the diverse needs of legal practice.
What do you get for free?
PracticePanther offers a free trial but not a permanently free plan. The trial period allows users to assess the breadth and depth of features and understand how they can cater to their practice's needs.
Standout features and integrations:
Notable features of PracticePanther include case management, time tracking, billing, and secure client communication. Its document management system also offers automation capabilities, significantly reducing the manual workload.
As for integrations, PracticePanther connects with essential platforms such as QuickBooks, LawPay, Dropbox, and Microsoft 365, further increasing its utility.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Broad range of integrations
- Notable automation capabilities
- Comprehensive feature set for legal management
Cons:
- High-tier plans can be expensive
- Some users may find the interface complex at first
- No permanently free plan
Moxo is a powerful automation tool developed with law firms in mind, focusing on the enhancement of their marketing activities. It is designed to automate client engagement processes, marketing campaigns, and analytical tasks. Given its dedication to legal marketing, it is the optimal choice for law firms looking to improve their marketing automation.
Why I Picked Moxo:
In the comparison of marketing automation tools, Moxo caught my attention due to its law-centric design. It stands out from other marketing automation software because it understands and caters to the specific needs and compliance requirements of legal firms. Given its legal focus and sophisticated automation capabilities, I believe Moxo is "Best for legal marketing automation."
Standout features and integrations:
Among its many features, Moxo excels with its customer relationship management (CRM) functionality, email marketing capabilities, and client engagement automation. These features simplify the process of managing client relationships and enhancing communication effectiveness.
In the area of integrations, Moxo integrates smoothly with popular legal software, such as Clio and Lexicata, as well as general tools like Gmail and Microsoft 365. These integrations broaden its functionality and ease of use.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Powerful CRM and email marketing capabilities
- Integration with popular legal software and productivity tools
- Dedicated focus on legal marketing automation
Cons:
- Might be expensive for smaller firms with limited budgets
- Pricing information may not be entirely transparent
- No free plan or trial version
CaseFleet is a case management tool that provides robust features, including fact management, document review, and a powerful timeline tool. It's this timeline tool, which visually maps out the important details and dates of a case, that makes it my top choice for timeline visualization of cases.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Comprehensive 14-day free trial
- Integrates with Google Calendar and Office 365
- Unique timeline feature for case visualization
Cons:
- May require some time to fully utilize the timeline feature
- Pricing can be high for smaller firms
- No free tier available
Westlaw is an industry-leading online legal research service for attorneys and legal professionals in the U.S. and around the globe. Known for its comprehensive legal database, it excels in providing detailed, authoritative resources for legal research, making it ideal for those who require in-depth information at their fingertips.
Why I Picked Westlaw:
The decision to select Westlaw was straightforward. Its reputation as an industry leader and the depth and quality of its legal database is truly unparalleled. As a tool, it has effectively transformed how professionals conduct legal research. I found it to be the best tool for authoritative legal research due to its vast collection of legal resources, including case law, case summaries, statutes, treatises, and legal encyclopedias.
What do you get for free?
Westlaw offers a 7-day free trial, which gives you access to their comprehensive legal database, with the ability to review and analyze cases, regulations, court opinions, court rules, secondary sources, and more. After the trial period, a subscription is required to continue using the service.
Standout features and integrations:
Westlaw's key feature is its extensive legal database with advanced search functionality. It offers KeyCite, a citation indexing system, which helps to ensure you're citing good law. Additionally, it has a feature for legal research and writing called Westlaw Edge, which employs artificial intelligence for faster, more precise research. It integrates well with legal practice management software, enhancing efficiency in case research and preparation.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- KeyCite feature for citing good law
- Advanced search functionality
- Vast and comprehensive legal database
Cons:
- Pricing can vary and may require negotiation
- Learning curve due to extensive features
- Higher cost compared to some alternatives
District Attorney Case Works is a comprehensive solution for managing criminal cases. It provides legal professionals with tools for organizing, tracking, and analyzing case details efficiently, earning its reputation as a top choice for criminal case management.
Why I Picked District Attorney Case Works:
I selected District Attorney Case Works for this list due to its specialization in criminal case management. It's tailored to help attorneys navigate complex cases, allowing them to focus on important legal matters rather than administration. It stood out to me because it's specifically designed for the unique needs of criminal law practitioners, making it the best tool for criminal case management.
Standout features and integrations:
District Attorney Case Works boasts a suite of features, including case tracking, document assembly, and a calendar system. Its standout feature is its powerful reporting tools that allow for deep insights into case metrics. Additionally, it integrates seamlessly with other legal research platforms and document management systems to streamline case preparation.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Seamless integration with other tools
- Powerful reporting capabilities
- Specialized tool for criminal case management
Cons:
- Some advanced features require additional payment
- No free trial or free tier
- Higher cost compared to general legal management tools
Assembly NEOS is an advanced document and workflow automation solution designed to improve business efficiency. It streamlines the creation, collaboration, and management of documents and workflows, and due to its flexible design and robust feature set, it stands as an ideal tool for document and workflow automation.
Why I Picked Assembly NEOS:
The choice of Assembly NEOS for this list was driven by its profound capabilities in automating document generation and workflows. It is distinct in its commitment to flexible automation, offering customizability that surpasses many other tools in the market. Based on this level of automation and flexibility, I'm convinced that Assembly NEOS is "Best for document and workflow automation."
Standout features and integrations:
One of the core strengths of Assembly NEOS is its intelligent automation capabilities. It can automate the generation of complex legal documents and manage intricate workflows, effectively reducing manual intervention.
In terms of integrations, Assembly NEOS connects well with major document management systems, including SharePoint, iManage, and NetDocuments, as well as business tools such as Microsoft Office and Salesforce. This ensures a more cohesive and efficient workflow.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Integrates with major document management systems and business tools
- Flexible and customizable to suit varying business needs
- Strong automation capabilities for documents and workflows
Cons:
- May be complex to set up and use without prior experience
- Pricing is not transparent
- Lack of a free plan or trial version
Other Free Legal Research Tools
Below is a list of additional free legal research tools I shortlisted but did not make it to the top 10. Definitely worth checking them out.
- Lawclerk
For freelance legal services
- Mitratech TeamConnect
For enterprise legal management
Free Legal Research Tool Selection Criteria
When selecting the best free legal research tools to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like budget constraints and ease of access to legal databases. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Need expert help selecting the right tool?
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Access to legal databases
- Case law retrieval
- Statute and regulation search
- Legal article access
- Citation tools
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- AI-driven search capabilities
- Mobile app availability
- Collaborative research tools
- Integration with legal practice software
- Multilingual support
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Customizable user settings
- Responsive design for mobile
- Minimal learning curve
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to webinars
- Comprehensive user guides
- Supportive chatbots for onboarding
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multiple support channels (chat, email, phone)
- Fast response times
- Access to a knowledge base
- Personalized support options
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing
- Free trial availability
- Range of features in free plan
- Cost compared to similar tools
- Discounts for long-term use
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction rating
- Feedback on ease of use
- Comments on customer support
- User-reported reliability
- Value for money feedback
How to Choose Free Legal Research Tools
Complex feature lists and pricing structures can make it hard to figure out what you’re really getting from a free legal research tools. To help you stay focused as you work through your software selection process, here are some factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Free Offer Scope | Check what's included in the free plan. Are essential features like case law access available, or will you need to upgrade to get the tools you really need? |
| Scalability | Consider if the tool can grow with your needs. Will it handle more users or increased data as your practice expands, or will you outgrow it quickly? |
| Integrations | Look for compatibility with other tools your team uses. Does it integrate with your existing legal practice software or require manual data transfer? |
| Ease of Use | Evaluate how intuitive the interface is. Will your team need extensive training, or can they start using it effectively right away? |
| Data Security | Ensure the tool complies with legal data regulations. Does it offer encryption and adhere to standards like GDPR to protect sensitive client information? |
| Customer Support | Assess the level of support available. Will you have access to 24/7 help if issues arise, or is support limited to certain hours? |
| Mobile Access | Determine if the tool is accessible on mobile devices. Can your team conduct research on-the-go, or is it limited to desktop use? |
| User Feedback | Read reviews from other users. Are there consistent complaints about certain features, or do users praise its reliability and effectiveness for legal research? |
What Are Free Legal Research Tools?
Legal research tools are software solutions that help legal professionals access case law, statutes, and legal articles. They often come with free plans or trials that provide basic access to these resources. Lawyers, paralegals, and law students typically use these tools to efficiently gather legal information and prepare cases. Features like case law retrieval, legal database access, and citation tools help with efficient research, staying informed, and making informed legal decisions.
Features
Let’s go over the features commonly found in legal research tools, and which ones are usually included in free vs. paid plans.
Typically Free Legal Research Tool Features
- Legal database access: Provides entry to a variety of legal databases, allowing users to find necessary legal documents and case law.
- Case law retrieval: Enables users to search and find relevant case law for their legal research and case preparation.
- Statute search: Allows users to look up statutes and regulations, essential for understanding legal requirements.
- Basic citation tools: Helps users properly cite legal documents and cases in their work, ensuring accuracy and professionalism.
- Limited search filters: Offers basic filtering options to narrow down search results, making it easier to find relevant information.
- Access to legal articles: Provides users with articles and publications to stay informed about legal trends and developments.
- Mobile access: Allows users to conduct research on mobile devices, offering flexibility and convenience.
Typically Paid Legal Research Tool Features
- Advanced search filters: Offers more sophisticated filtering options to refine search results, saving time and improving accuracy.
- AI-driven analytics: Uses artificial intelligence to analyze large volumes of data, providing deeper insights and predictive analysis.
- Collaboration tools: Facilitates team collaboration with shared notes and annotations, improving team efficiency.
- Integration with practice management software: Connects with other legal software to streamline workflows and manage cases more effectively.
- Multilingual support: Provides access to legal resources in multiple languages, useful for international or multilingual legal practices.
- Custom alerts and notifications: Sends updates on specific legal topics or cases, keeping users informed of any changes or developments.
- Document management features: Allows for better organization and storage of legal documents, enhancing accessibility and security.
- Priority customer support: Offers faster and more comprehensive support services for paid users, ensuring timely assistance when needed.
Benefits
Implementing free legal research tools provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Cost savings: Access essential legal research features without spending on expensive subscriptions, helping your firm manage budgets effectively.
- Accessibility: Use mobile access to conduct research anytime, anywhere, which offers flexibility and convenience for busy professionals.
- Efficiency: Basic search filters and case law retrieval tools help quickly find relevant information, saving time in legal research.
- Professionalism: Basic citation tools ensure accurate referencing in legal documents, maintaining a high standard of work.
- Up-to-date knowledge: Access to legal articles keeps your team informed about legal trends and developments, supporting informed decision-making.
- Flexibility: Freemium plans allow you to try different tools without commitment, helping you find the best fit for your needs.
- Collaboration: Free tools often include basic features that enable team collaboration, improving communication and coordination on legal projects.
Costs & Pricing
I realize you came to this article looking for the best legal research tools options that are available for free. However, since free plans only offer limited features, there's a good chance you'll need to scale your plan up in the future.
The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in legal research tools solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Legal Research Tools
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic legal database access, case law retrieval, statute search, and limited search filters. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$25/user/month | Advanced search filters, mobile access, and basic citation tools. |
| Business Plan | $30-$50/user/month | AI-driven analytics, integration with practice management software, and collaboration tools. |
| Enterprise Plan | $60-$100/user/month | Custom alerts and notifications, multilingual support, and priority customer support. |
Most Common Questions Regarding Free Legal Research Tools (FAQs)
What's the best free online legal database?
Some of the best free legal research tools include Fastcase, CourtListener, Caselaw Access Project, FindLaw, Casetext, Justia, and the Legal Information Institute. These platforms provide access to a wide range of legal documents and resources at no cost, making them valuable for budget-conscious users.
How to do legal research without Westlaw?
You can use Google Scholar for initial research and ideas, as it provides access to legal opinions and journals. Additionally, some bar associations offer free access to tools like Fastcase for their members, providing a cost-effective alternative to Westlaw.
Are free legal research tools reliable?
Free legal research tools can be reliable, but it’s essential to understand their limitations. They may not offer the most up-to-date or comprehensive databases compared to paid services, so it’s crucial to verify the information and use them alongside other resources when necessary.
Can free tools integrate with other software?
Some free legal research tools offer basic integration capabilities, allowing you to connect with other legal practice management software. However, these integrations might be limited compared to those available in paid versions, so it’s essential to check compatibility with your existing systems.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching free legal research tools, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.