One Of The Most Important Functions You Will Perform In
One Of The Most Important Functions That You Will Perform In Todays N
One of the most important functions that you will perform in today’s new technology–laden law office is that of legal research. The best method for becoming proficient in legal research skills is through practice. View the website Freelaw and the Legal Information Institute, which are free legal search engines. Using either or both of these resources, research and brief a United States Supreme Court case. Submit an essay that adheres to the following guidelines: Your essay should be a minimum of 1 page long, (counting body text only, not title or reference pages) in double-spaced, one-inch margins on all sides. You will be assessed on the rationale you use in addressing the question/issue posted, and how well you justify your argument regarding this issue. Your response must be thought provoking, have well developed ideas and/or opinions, and should reference any supporting material from the text, lecture, or other sources you have used to complete the assignment.
Paper For Above instruction
Legal research is a fundamental skill for legal professionals, especially in today's technologically advanced law offices. Mastery of this skill requires ongoing practice and familiarity with credible legal research resources. Among the most prominent are the Legal Information Institute (LII) and Freelaw, both of which offer free access to a vast array of legal materials, including Supreme Court decisions. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate proficiency in legal research by selecting, analyzing, and briefing a United States Supreme Court case accessed through one or both of these resources, and by critically discussing the case and its implications.
The process of researching a Supreme Court case begins with selecting a case that is recent or of particular relevance to a current legal issue. Using the free legal research tools, one can search by keywords, case names, or legal topics. For purposes of this paper, I selected the case Obergefell v. Hodges (2015), which was a landmark case addressing the constitutional right to same-sex marriage. The case was found through the Legal Information Institute website, which offers comprehensive case summaries, opinions, and related legal materials.
Briefing a Supreme Court case involves a structured analysis that summarizes key elements including the facts, issues, holding, and reasoning. In Obergefell v. Hodges, the facts involve same-sex couples challenging state bans on same-sex marriage and recognition of such marriages performed in other states. The central issue was whether the Fourteenth Amendment requires states to license same-sex marriages and recognize those marriages performed elsewhere. The Court held that the Fourteenth Amendment mandates marriage equality, emphasizing the fundamental right to marry and the importance of personal autonomy.
The Court’s reasoning centered on the principles of equal protection and due process under the Fourteenth Amendment. It discussed the historical evolution of marriage laws, the societal significance of marriage, and the dignity owed to all individuals regardless of sexual orientation. The majority opinion, authored by Justice Kennedy, articulated that restricting marriage to opposite-sex couples violated the principles of equality and individual liberty. The Court reasoned that marriage is a fundamental right that underpins individual autonomy and societal recognition, thus prohibiting states from denying same-sex couples that right.
The significance of Obergefell v. Hodges extends beyond the immediate legal ramifications; it signifies a shift towards greater recognition of civil rights and personal freedoms in the United States. It redefines the legal landscape regarding marriage equality, setting a precedent for future cases involving civil rights, privacy, and individual autonomy. Moreover, it exemplifies how legal research and briefings are critical in understanding the nuances and implications of landmark decisions, which subsequently influence policy, legislation, and social norms.
In constructing this brief, I critically analyzed the case’s facts, issues, and judicial reasoning, highlighting the importance of thoroughly understanding legal principles to appreciate the decision's significance. This exercise illustrates how effective legal research, coupled with critical thinking, enhances one's ability to interpret major judicial rulings. Such skills are vital for future legal practitioners in advocating for justice and informed decision-making.
In conclusion, mastering legal research through resources like the Legal Information Institute is essential for contemporary legal practice. Briefing Supreme Court cases enables deeper comprehension of legal doctrines and prepares practitioners to engage meaningfully with legal issues. The case of Obergefell v. Hodges exemplifies the importance of legal research in uncovering pivotal rulings that shape societal values and legal standards. As legal professionals hone these skills, they contribute to a more just and equitable legal system.
References
Legal Information Institute. (2015). Obergefell v. Hodges, 135 S. Ct. 2584. https://www.law.cornell.edu/supremecourt/text/14-556
U.S. Supreme Court. (2015). Obergefell v. Hodges. https://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/14pdf/14-556_3204.pdf
Federal Judicial Center. (2020). Guide to Judicial Practice. https://www.fjc.gov/
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