Fastcase - Detailed Review
Legal Tools
Fastcase - Product Overview
Overview of Fastcase
Fastcase is a leading online legal research platform that has been a staple in the legal community since its founding in 1999 by attorneys Ed Walters and Phil Rosenthal. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Fastcase is designed to provide legal professionals with an efficient and comprehensive tool for conducting legal research. It offers access to a vast library of legal documents, including court opinions, statutes, regulations, court rules, and constitutions from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and federal courts.Target Audience
The primary users of Fastcase are legal professionals, including lawyers, law firms, and legal researchers. It is particularly popular among members of various state bar associations, with which Fastcase has partnerships in several states such as Arizona, Florida, Illinois, and more.Key Features
Comprehensive Database
Fastcase provides access to millions of cases, statutes, and regulations, making it a one-stop resource for legal research.Advanced Search Tools
Users can locate cases using keywords, Boolean searches, and sort results by date, relevance, authority, or alphabetically. The platform also allows filtering by document type, jurisdiction, or court level.Authority Check
Fastcase includes an Authority Check Report and a Bad Law Bot, which help users verify the validity of cited cases and alert them to negative citations, similar to Shepardizing.Public Records Integration
Through a partnership with TransUnion, Fastcase offers access to public records information, including addresses, phone numbers, employment details, and other relevant data for due diligence and investigations.Expert Witness Profiles
Fastcase integrates with JurisPro and Courtroom Insight to provide access to over 100,000 expert witness profiles, which include background information, contact details, and testimonial history.User-Friendly Interface
The platform features a user-friendly interface with tools like semantic tag clouds to refine searches, interactive timelines to see case relevance, and the ability to save, print, or email documents.Integration with Other Tools
Fastcase has an exclusive integration with Clio, allowing users to track their research time and record documents directly within the Clio dashboard. Overall, Fastcase is a powerful and accessible tool that democratizes legal research, making it more efficient and cost-effective for legal professionals. Fastcase - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Fastcase
The user interface of Fastcase, particularly in its updated versions such as vLex Fastcase, is designed to be user-friendly and efficient for legal research.
Interface and Navigation
The interface of Fastcase has undergone significant improvements, especially with the transition to vLex Fastcase. This new version features a ground-up redesign that ensures the platform looks great on all screen sizes, from large monitors to small phones.
Users can browse content by type and jurisdiction, making it easier to access relevant legal materials quickly. The updated interface includes enhanced navigation at the document level, with a table of contents linked directly to specific sections of cases, statutes, regulations, books, and journal articles.
Search and Retrieval
Fastcase allows for powerful and flexible searching using Boolean operators, making it easy to find specific information. The platform tracks your recent searches and jurisdictions, listing the last ten searches and the last five jurisdictions you’ve selected, which helps in quickly revisiting previous research.
Document Management
Users can print and save documents in various formats, including Microsoft Word (DOC), Adobe Acrobat (PDF), and Microsoft Word (RTF). The platform also offers a batch printing feature, allowing you to add up to 50 documents to a print queue and print them all at once, which is a significant time-saver.
Email and Sharing
Fastcase enables you to email documents directly from the platform. You can send a document to any email address with just a few clicks, either within the body of the email or as an attachment.
Personalized Features
Fastcase dynamically tracks your search history and adjusts the user interface to make your research more efficient. It also allows you to save up to 50 documents as favorites and stores the last ten documents you’ve viewed for easy access.
Integrations and Additional Features
vLex Fastcase integrates seamlessly with Microsoft Word and Google Chrome, allowing you to access its features directly within your daily workflows. The platform also includes tools like Cert, a negative citator that helps identify cases treated unfavorably in subsequent decisions, and AI Case Analysis, which provides automatically generated header notes and insights into the legal issues of a case.
Overall User Experience
The feedback from users indicates that Fastcase is very user-friendly, with responsive company representatives and a good search engine. The platform’s ability to streamline legal research and provide easy access to a vast array of legal content makes it highly efficient for legal professionals.
Fastcase - Key Features and Functionality
Fastcase Overview
Fastcase, a leading legal research platform, integrates several key features and AI-driven technologies to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of legal research. Here are the main features and how they work:Smart Search Technology and Relevance Score
Fastcase employs smart search technology that assigns a Relevance Score to each document in the search results. This score, ranging from 0% to 100%, indicates how likely the document is to discuss the topic of your search. The higher the score, the more relevant the document is to your query. This feature helps users quickly identify the most pertinent documents, saving time and improving the quality of research.Personalized Features
Fastcase tracks and personalizes several aspects of your research experience:Recently Searched Jurisdictions
It remembers the last jurisdictions you searched, making it easier to select frequently used jurisdictions in future searches.Last 10 Searches
Fastcase records your last 10 searches, allowing you to quickly revisit previous search results.Recently Viewed Documents
It stores the last 50 documents you viewed for easy access.Favorite Documents
You can save up to 50 documents for later reference. These features streamline your research process by reducing the time spent on repetitive tasks.Document Management
Fastcase offers several document management tools:Printing and Downloading
You can print or download documents in various formats (MS Word, Adobe PDF, MS Rich Text File) and choose to highlight search terms. Batch printing allows you to download and print up to 50 documents at once.Emailing Documents
You can email documents directly from the platform, either within the body of the email or as an attachment.AI Sandbox
The Fastcase AI Sandbox, launched in 2017, is a unique environment where law firms can integrate their internal data with Fastcase’s legal data and other public datasets. This integration allows firms to:Analyze Data
Use AI tools like IBM Watson and Neota Logic to analyze firm data, public data, and commercially available data.Predictive Analytics
Compare internal firm data with public data to improve predictability and forecasting, such as analyzing case outcomes and judge or expert witness data.Data Security
The AI Sandbox ensures that the firm’s data remains behind their firewall, providing a secure environment for analysis.Advanced Search Tools
Fastcase Premium includes several advanced search tools:Interactive Timeline
Visualize the history of a case or statute.Forecite
Predict the relevance of cases based on their citation history.Citation Analysis
Analyze how cases are cited to determine their importance.Authority Check Report
Verify the validity of cited authorities.Integration with Other Tools
Fastcase integrates with various AI and legal tools, such as NextChapter for immigration case management and document automation. This integration enhances the functionality of the platform by incorporating specialized tools and practice management materials.User Interface and Preferences
Fastcase allows users to set and save display preferences, such as highlighting search terms and using inflection to include plural forms of search terms. Users can also reset their application settings to clear personalization data if needed. These features collectively make Fastcase a powerful and efficient tool for legal research, leveraging AI to enhance the accuracy and speed of finding relevant legal information. Fastcase - Performance and Accuracy
Performance and Accuracy of Fastcase
When evaluating the performance and accuracy of Fastcase, a legal research tool, several key aspects come into focus:
Search Capabilities
Fastcase employs a keyword search model, allowing users to search the full text of legal documents, including case law, statutes, regulations, court rules, and constitutions. This approach is flexible and does not rely on pre-determined subject categories, which can be both an advantage and a disadvantage. Users need to select accurate keywords to get relevant results, but this can be managed with practice.
Boolean Search and Natural Language Search
Fastcase supports Boolean search logic, which helps in refining searches using operators like AND, OR, and NOT. Additionally, it offers natural language search, allowing users to describe a concept or topic in plain English without needing Boolean operators. While natural language search is less precise, it is helpful for those unfamiliar with legal terminology or new to a topic.
Organization and Filtering
Documents on Fastcase are organized into categories such as case law, statutes, and regulations. Users can narrow their searches by jurisdiction, decision date, case name, and court hierarchy, which helps in filtering out irrelevant results. The platform also tracks recent searches and frequently searched jurisdictions, making it easier to return to previous work.
Accuracy and Reliability
While Fastcase does not have the same level of built-in AI-driven legal research tools as some of its competitors like Lexis AI or Westlaw’s Ask Practical Law AI, it relies on its comprehensive database and search functionalities to provide accurate results. However, there is no specific data available on the accuracy rates of Fastcase’s search results compared to AI-powered tools.
Limitations
One notable limitation is that Fastcase’s database of Illinois case law, for example, extends back only to 1950. This might not be a significant issue for many practitioners who primarily rely on more recent cases, but it could be a drawback for those needing older precedents.
Additional Features
Fastcase offers features like Authority Check, which helps in verifying the precedential value of cases by showing other cases that cite the one being reviewed. However, it is acknowledged that this tool is not a complete replacement for more powerful citation services like Shepards or KeyCite, which are available on a transactional basis.
Areas for Improvement
- Database Depth: Expanding the historical depth of case law databases could enhance the tool’s utility for researchers needing older cases.
- Integration with AI Tools: While Fastcase excels in traditional keyword and Boolean searches, integrating AI-driven features could improve the precision and comprehensiveness of search results, especially in complex legal queries.
- Citation Services: Enhancing Authority Check to match the capabilities of Shepards or KeyCite could make Fastcase a more self-contained solution for legal researchers.
Conclusion
In summary, Fastcase is a reliable tool for legal research with strong search capabilities and organizational features. However, it may benefit from expanding its database and integrating more advanced AI-driven functionalities to enhance its accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Fastcase - Pricing and Plans
Fastcase Pricing Structure
Fastcase offers a clear and flexible pricing structure for its legal research tools, catering to various needs and user preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the different plans and features:
Appellate Plan
Pricing
$65 per month or $695 per year.
Features
- Access to all search formats
- Bad Law Bot — Authority Check Citator
- Partner content and additional add-ons
- Comprehensive support options including LiveChat, email, phone, and online tutorials.
Premium Plan
Pricing
$95 per month or $995 per year.
Features
- All the features included in the Appellate Plan
- Additional premium content and tools, though specific details are not provided in the sources.
Enterprise Plan
Pricing
Custom pricing; users need to contact Fastcase for a quote.
Features
- This plan is likely to include all features from the Premium Plan, along with additional enterprise-level tools and support. However, specific details require direct contact with Fastcase sales.
Free Trial
Fastcase offers a 24-hour free trial that allows users to experience the full range of features without any credit card information. This trial includes:
- Printing cases directly from Microsoft Word and Adobe Acrobat
- Visualizing search results using an interactive timeline
- Access to customer support options such as LiveChat, email, phone, and online tutorials.
vLex Fastcase (Upgraded Version)
For users who have Fastcase as a member benefit, the platform has been upgraded to vLex Fastcase. This upgrade includes all the existing content and features of Fastcase 7, plus new tools to enhance productivity. Users can transition to vLex Fastcase without taking any additional action, and their subscriptions will be automatically transferred.
Summary
In summary, Fastcase provides a range of plans to suit different user needs, from the basic Appellate Plan to the more comprehensive Premium and Enterprise Plans, along with a free trial option for those looking to test the service before committing.
Fastcase - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Clio
Time Tracking
Fastcase has a significant integration with Clio, a leading practice management and CRM software. This integration allows attorneys to track the time spent on legal research accurately using the Clio timer, which is embedded within Fastcase. This feature enables seamless time tracking, making it easier to manage billable hours.Case Management
Additionally, research entries can be saved directly into the appropriate case in Clio, ensuring all information is organized and accessible in one place.Compatibility with HeinOnline
Access to Case Law
Fastcase also integrates with HeinOnline, a major legal research database. This partnership provides HeinOnline subscribers with access to a wide array of case law through their existing subscription. Users can access the full text of cases without needing to use multiple research databases.Subscription Options
The integration offers both Basic and Premium subscription options, with the Premium subscription providing advanced features such as the ability to see cases that have cited the case in question and access to the Fastcase Search tool.Mobile Compatibility
Fastcase offers mobile applications for iPhone, iPad, Android, and Windows Phone devices. These mobile apps use smart search technology from Fastcase’s full-featured legal research platform, including features like Authority Check. Users can view recent searches, favorite documents, and even sync their mobile account with a bar association account, ensuring comprehensive access to legal resources on the go.AI Sandbox and Partner Technologies
Data Analysis
Fastcase’s AI Sandbox is a working environment that integrates various AI platforms, including IBM Watson, Neota Logic, and LexPredict, among others. This integration allows firms to analyze their internal data along with public legal data, providing insights such as comparing case outcomes and identifying success rates in specific jurisdictions.Data Security
The AI Sandbox ensures that a firm’s data remains secure behind their firewall or on Amazon Web Services for analysis.General Compatibility
Fastcase is compatible with major web browsers such as Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, and Mozilla Firefox. The platform also supports various file formats for printing and downloading documents, including Microsoft Word (DOC), Adobe Acrobat (PDF), and Microsoft Word (RTF).Bar Association Partnerships
Fastcase partners with over 80 national, state, and county bar associations across the United States, providing legal software and solutions as a free member benefit. This widespread compatibility ensures that a large number of legal professionals can access and utilize Fastcase’s comprehensive legal research database efficiently.Conclusion
In summary, Fastcase integrates well with several key legal tools and platforms, enhancing the workflow of law firms by providing seamless access to legal research, time tracking, and case management features across various devices and platforms. Fastcase - Customer Support and Resources
Fastcase Customer Support
Fastcase offers a comprehensive array of customer support options and additional resources to ensure users can effectively utilize their legal research tools.Customer Support Options
For any assistance or queries, users can contact Fastcase customer support through several channels:Phone
You can call Fastcase Customer Service at 1-866-773-2782. Their office hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.Live Chat
Users can initiate a live chat by selecting the Live Help option from the Help menu on the Fastcase website.It’s important to note that while Fastcase customer service can help with technical issues and product usage, they cannot answer legal questions or provide legal advice.
Additional Resources
Fastcase provides several resources to help users get the most out of their legal research tools:FAQs
The Fastcase website has a detailed FAQ section that addresses common questions about printing documents, managing print queues, retrieving search history, and more.User Guides and Tutorials
Fastcase offers various resources, including videos and webinars, to help users learn how to use the platform effectively. These resources can be found under the “Fastcase resources” section.Practice Area Briefs and Forms
For solo and small law firms, Fastcase includes access to dockets with practice area briefs and motions, as well as practice area forms, to streamline research and filing processes.Integrated Partner Services
Fastcase integrates with other legal software such as Docket Alarm and NextChapter, providing a seamless workflow and additional tools for managing legal tasks.Legal Research Database
Fastcase updates its legal research database daily, adding most appellate cases within 24 to 48 hours of their release by the court. The database includes case law, statutes, regulations, court rules, and law review articles.These resources and support options are designed to make legal research more efficient and accessible for users.
Fastcase - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Cost-Effectiveness
Fastcase is significantly more affordable than traditional legal research platforms like Westlaw and LexisNexis. For example, it can save users around $200 per month compared to Westlaw, making it an attractive option for solo practitioners and small to medium-sized firms.
Comprehensive Database
Fastcase offers access to a comprehensive national law library, including case law from all 50 states and federal courts. This is particularly useful for practitioners who need to research laws from multiple jurisdictions.
AI-Driven Tools
Fastcase incorporates AI technology to enhance legal research. Features like visual search tools and the “CaseMap” allow users to visualize case law connections, making research more efficient.
Mobile Accessibility
Fastcase provides a mobile app, enabling attorneys to conduct research on the go, which is highly convenient for those who need to work remotely or in different locations.
Additional Tools
Fastcase includes other useful tools such as Docket Search, Public Records Search, and the Authority Check feature, which helps users determine the precedential value of cases by showing other cases that cite the one being reviewed.
Bar Association Deals
Fastcase is often available for free or at a reduced cost through membership in various bar associations, adding significant value to the membership.
Disadvantages
Limited Secondary Sources
While Fastcase has a growing list of secondary sources, it still lags behind Westlaw and LexisNexis in this area. This might be a drawback for practitioners who rely heavily on secondary sources.
No Business Search
Fastcase does not offer business search capabilities, which could be a limitation for firms that need to conduct business-related research.
No Shepards or KeyCite
Fastcase does not include proprietary services like Shepards or KeyCite, which are considered the most powerful tools for determining the subsequent treatment of a case. However, Fastcase does provide links to these services for transactional use at a lower cost.
Database Limitations
The database of Illinois case law on Fastcase extends back only to 1950, although most practitioners agree that this is not a significant issue since most legal work involves more recently decided cases.
Limited Availability of Advanced AI Tools
While Fastcase is developing advanced AI tools like Vincent AI, these are currently available only in beta and to select users, with a broader rollout planned for the future.
Overall, Fastcase is a strong option for legal research, especially for those looking for cost-effective and efficient tools, but it may not meet the needs of larger firms or those requiring extensive secondary sources and advanced proprietary services.
Fastcase - Comparison with Competitors
When comparing Fastcase to other AI-driven legal research tools, several key features and alternatives stand out:
Fastcase Key Features
- Fastcase provides comprehensive access to court opinions from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Supreme Court, federal Courts of Appeal, U.S. District Courts, and U.S. Bankruptcy Courts. It also includes statutes, regulations, court rules, and constitutions from the 50 states.
- The platform offers advanced search tools, including keyword and Boolean searches, the ability to sort results by date, relevance, authority, or alphabetically, and features like Authority Check Reports and Bad Law Bot to ensure the validity of cited cases.
- Fastcase integrates with Clio, allowing users to track their legal research time and record documents directly within the Clio dashboard.
Unique Features of Fastcase
- Integration with Clio: Fastcase has an exclusive integration with Clio, which is beneficial for firms already using Clio for practice management.
- Comprehensive Legal Content: Enhanced by vLex’s AI-driven tools, vLex Fastcase offers one of the most comprehensive collections of legal content worldwide on a single platform.
- Free Access: Fastcase is often provided for free through various state bar associations, making it a cost-effective option for many legal professionals.
Alternatives to Fastcase
Casetext
- Casetext is known for its AI legal research tools, particularly its CARA A.I., which allows users to upload legal documents and receive relevant case law and statutes. It offers a free standalone legal research package with superior search technology and a comprehensive legal database.
- Unique Feature: Casetext’s CoCounsel AI tackles various critical legal tasks, including discovery, contract analysis, and deposition preparation.
UniCourt
- UniCourt provides real-time access to litigation data from over 3,000 state and federal courts across 40 states. It offers an API-first platform for business development, litigation strategy, and docket management.
- Unique Feature: UniCourt’s API-first architecture and sophisticated data normalization deliver a comprehensive and well-structured dataset.
Premonition
- Premonition offers advanced filtering and search capabilities, including venue, case type, and attorney searches. It can read large volumes of court documents quickly and provides automated court monitoring.
- Unique Feature: Premonition’s system can read 50,000 pages in less than a second, and it helps in identifying the best lawyers and lawsuits based on investment criteria.
Ravel Law
- Ravel Law provides a free legal research tool that uses AI to offer visual insights into case law. It helps users see how cases are connected through a visual interface.
- Unique Feature: Ravel Law’s visual case law analysis makes it easier to understand legal precedents and patterns.
SmartAdvocate
- SmartAdvocate is a fully customizable legal case management software with built-in AI, designed for personal injury and mass tort law firms. It integrates with over 150 partners, including eSignature, accounting, and medical records retrieval.
- Unique Feature: SmartAdvocate’s AI-driven features enable firms to manage and store information, track it, classify it, and communicate more efficiently.
Each of these alternatives offers distinct advantages and may be more suitable depending on the specific needs of a law firm or legal professional. For example, Casetext is strong in AI-driven legal research, UniCourt excels in real-time litigation data, and SmartAdvocate is tailored for case management in personal injury and mass tort law firms.
Fastcase - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Fastcase
What does Fastcase offer in terms of legal research resources?
Fastcase provides a comprehensive U.S. legal law library, including case law, statutes, regulations, court rules, constitutions, and law review articles. It covers federal and 50-state constitutions, case law, statutes, and codes, making it a one-stop resource for legal research.How does Fastcase help in finding relevant cases?
Fastcase features proprietary research tools such as the Interactive Timeline and Authority Check. These tools help locate the most relevant cases quickly. The Authority Check allows you to navigate all cited authorities within a document and find supporting arguments easily. Additionally, you can filter search results by jurisdiction to narrow down to specific courts or regions.What are the pricing options for Fastcase?
Fastcase offers flexible pricing plans to suit different firm sizes. The options include a Pay As You Go plan, a Flat Fee plan, and an Enterprise plan. For example, the Pro plan costs $99 per month or $995 per year, offering unlimited access to documents, case alerts, docket tracking, and more. There are also discounts available for groups and volume users.Is Fastcase accessible on mobile devices?
Yes, Fastcase is accessible on mobile devices. It offers apps for iPhone, iPad, and Android, allowing you to take smarter legal research on the go. You can search case law and statutes, use smart search technology, and access many of the features available on the web-based application. Mobile sync also allows you to connect your mobile account with your desktop account, ensuring seamless access to your research across devices.What kind of support does Fastcase offer?
Fastcase provides live customer support through Live Chat, available from 7 am to 7 pm Central time, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. This service allows you to get personalized help while multitasking, and support associates can send links to search results, cases, and more via the chat.How does Fastcase integrate with other legal tools and software?
Fastcase integrates with various legal tools and software, such as ECF (Electronic Case Files) integration, Clio integration, and credit report integration. It also offers features like case management tools, local forms, and calendar integration, making it a comprehensive solution for managing your legal practice.Can I create and manage my own library of cases on Fastcase?
Yes, you can create your own personal library of up to 50 favorite cases on Fastcase. You can add cases to your library with just one click and access them easily anytime without needing to search again. Fastcase also automatically saves the last 10 cases you have accessed for quick retrieval.Are there any additional resources or publications available on Fastcase?
Fastcase includes access to various publications, such as law review articles and journals from bar associations. For example, members of the California Lawyers Association have access to CLA publications dating back to 2014 through the Fastcase platform.How often is the Fastcase database updated?
Fastcase adds new documents at a significant rate, with over 5,000 new documents added per day. This ensures that the database remains current and comprehensive, providing users with the most up-to-date legal information.Is Fastcase available for free to any groups or members?
Yes, Fastcase is available for free to members of over 80 national, state, and county bar associations across the United States. For instance, members of the California Lawyers Association have access to the Fastcase Premium plan as part of their membership benefits. Fastcase - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Fastcase
Fastcase is a formidable tool in the legal research arena, offering a wide range of features that make it an invaluable asset for legal professionals. Here’s a breakdown of its key benefits and who would most benefit from using it.Comprehensive Legal Content
Fastcase provides access to a vast library of legal materials, including case law from all 50 states, federal courts, statutes, regulations, constitutions, and court rules. This comprehensive coverage makes it a one-stop solution for researchers needing both state and federal legal information.Advanced Search and Visualization Tools
The platform is equipped with intuitive search engines that support keyword and Boolean searches, as well as natural language searches. The Interactive Timeline feature is particularly useful, as it graphically depicts the most relevant cases and their relationships, helping users quickly identify seminal cases.Authority Check and Citation Analysis
Fastcase includes an Authority Check Report and a Bad Law Bot, which alert users to cases with negative citation histories. While not a complete replacement for services like Shepard’s or KeyCite, these tools are highly useful for ensuring the validity of cited cases. Users can also sort results by authority, making it easier to prioritize the most frequently cited cases.AI-Driven Enhancements
The integration with vLex has introduced advanced AI-driven tools, such as AI Case Analysis, which generates header notes and provides insights into the legal issues of a case. This enhances the efficiency and accuracy of legal research.User-Friendly Interface and Mobile Access
Fastcase boasts a user-friendly interface that allows easy browsing by content type across jurisdictions. The platform is accessible on both web and mobile devices, enabling lawyers to conduct research on the go. The mobile apps sync with the main account, ensuring seamless access to favorites and search history.Cost-Effective and Additional Benefits
For members of various bar associations, Fastcase is often provided as a complimentary benefit, offering significant cost savings compared to other legal research services like Westlaw or Lexis. Additional benefits include unlimited usage, free printing, and unlimited customer support.Who Would Benefit Most
Fastcase is particularly beneficial for:- General practice lawyers who need to research a variety of legal areas.
- Lawyers handling cases that require access to both state and federal legal materials.
- Small to medium-sized law firms looking to reduce their legal research costs without compromising on the quality of resources.
- Bar association members who can access Fastcase as part of their membership benefits.