— Adam S.I had a great experience with CLS. Well-organized content, accessible instructors, engaging coursework. Overall a great experience.
Advanced Legal Research and Writing
Starting at:
$995
Learn advanced and specialized approaches to utilizing legal resources
Flexible 100% online class
24/7 course accessibility
Complete in just 7 weeks
More Information
About this course
The ability to effectively conduct legal research and analysis is an important aspect of any legal career. With your paralegal certificate in hand or a year of legal experience under your belt, you’re ready to learn more advanced approaches to legal research, briefing cases and writing to the law. We can help you build on your paralegal skills to expand your expertise and grow your career.
View our recorded webinar
Learn about the coursework, learning outcomes and answers to frequently asked questions
Legal Support Courses Informational Webinar — This session was recorded on March 24, 2021 and may mention timely information. Our courses are open enrollment and start every 8 weeks.
Class format
Flexible online education
For over 40 years, CLS has provided students with flexible and effective legal education through a variety of formats catered to a busy life. All formats are designed and updated to remain on pace with the current industry, and are taught by working professionals. The Advanced Legal Research and Writing course is offered 100% online, so you can complete your coursework around your schedule while still benefiting from regular instructor and peer interaction.
CLS by BARBRI Advanced Legal Research & Writing Certificate Course offered in a convenient online format. Classes are available from any computer with internet access. This course is designed to more thoroughly examine advanced and specialized approaches to utilizing the legal sources available in the law library and online.
- View the Course Syllabus
- Delivers hands-on practical application research exercises to hone your research skills.
- Get instruction in Westlaw© tutorials.
- Students benefit from direct interaction with the instructor and other students.

About California State University San Marcos
Founded in 1989, California State University San Marcos is a new kind of university — technologically sophisticated, fully engaged in the community and pushing the boundaries of innovation. Our hands-on, real-world curriculum and applied research fuels the creativity that yields ideas to solve critical 21st century problems.
Course details
Learning outcomes
Advanced and specialized approaches to utilizing the legal resources available in a law library and elsewhere will be examined. The conceptual differences between computer-assisted legal research and hard-copy research will be taught. You will also learn how to formulate WESTLAW search queries, and how to effectively and efficiently use WESTLAW and other online legal research methods as timesaving devices in legal research and legal writing. Coursework in Advanced Legal Research and Writing is equivalent to 50 hours of study.
Career outlook
As the practice of legal research evolves from largely hard-copy centric searches to computer-assisted queries, your ability to use advanced approaches to legal research, briefing cases and writing to the law will only increase your salary potential and marketability. From greater job readiness to endless opportunities for career advancement, this course is the natural next step in your paralegal career. Set yourself up for career success with this rewarding program. Learn more.

Frequently asked questions
Do I need a High School Diploma or GED to take CLS courses?
CLS courses are designed for adult students and are taught on a college level. Minimum requirements to take any of our courses are a high school diploma or GED, and to be 18 years of age prior to enrollment.
Can I get financial aid?
Traditional financial aid (Pell grants, Stafford Loans, etc.) usually do not apply to these courses due to their continuing education status. Please view our Payment Options information to explore possible options.
Request more information
Are you interested in learning more about the Advanced Legal Research and Writing course? Complete this contact form to receive emails and text messages from CLS. You’ll also be able to set up a personalized consultation with one of our Enrollment Counselors who can answer all your question and recommend the best course for you.
You’ll receive updates on:
- How CLS courses work
- Paralegal career growth and outlook
- Course pricing, payment options and promotions
- Exclusive webinars, events and more!
Related courses
You may also be interested in these popular CLS by BARBRI courses
Paralegal Certificate Course©
Our flagship introductory course for those interested in a paralegal career.
Online, Live Lecture, Text Only or Online Flex course
Starting at:
$1,895
Advanced Paralegal Certificate Course
These advanced topics build upon the introductory Paralegal Certificate Course.
Online or Text Only course
Starting at:
$3,300 or
$550 per topic
Personal Injury for Paralegals
Understand the legal terms, causes of action and remedies available to victims.
Online course
Starting at:
$995
eDiscovery for Paralegals
An introductory course for paralegals entering the eDiscovery Field.
Online course
Starting at:
$995