Advanced Legal Research and Writing

Starting at:

$995

Master the skills of legal research, briefing cases and writing to the the law.

Flexible 100% online class

24/7 course accessibility

Complete in just 7 weeks

More Information

Take the next step in your paralegal career

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 and specialized approaches to legal research and writing. CLS by BARBRI helps you build on your paralegal skills to expand your expertise and grow your career.

View our recorded webinar

Find out about the coursework and learning outcomes and get 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

Your flexible legal training awaits

Our Advanced Legal Research and Writing course is offered 100% online, so you can complete your coursework around your schedule.

Get a flexible and effective legal education while still benefiting from regular instructor and peer interaction.

Our asynchronous virtual learning environment allows busy students to study anytime, in the comfort of their own home or office. 

The interactive platform offers 24/7 course access with video and printed tutorials available. Discussion forums and a built-in email tool make communicating with your instructor and peers a breeze​​.  

Review the course material as many times as necessary for full retention of the information and complete weekly assignments to help you stay on track​​. 

  • We offer 6 sessions per year, starting every 8 weeks
  • 24/7 Course Access 
    • Once registered, your password and access information will be sent via email prior to the start of class. 
  • Student Support  
    • CLS provides ongoing administrative and technical support for all students.
  • Get instruction in Westlaw© tutorials.

Review the Online Advanced Legal Research and Writing syllabus to learn more.

George Mason University

About George Mason University

Mason Continuing and Professional Education brings more than 35 years of experience helping career-driven individuals qualify for new and exciting opportunities. We see more than 3,000 students a year upskill their abilities so they qualify to advance their careers, work in new industries, or maintain their certifications. Mason CPE, in partnership with CLS by BARBRI, offers you the opportunity to learn about the law, legal ethics, and what goes into successful litigation. Whether you want to become a paralegal, broaden your skill set as a paralegal, or expand your legal savvy as a professional, we can offer you the course you need to strengthen and advance your career.

Course details

Learning outcomes

The Advanced Legal Research and Writing course examines advanced and specialized approaches to using the legal resources available in a law library and elsewhere. Get valuable training to understand the conceptual differences between computer-assisted legal research and hard copy research. Plus, learn how to formulate WESTLAW search queries and effectively and efficiently use WESTLAW and other online legal research methods as timesaving devices in research and writing. Coursework in Advanced Legal Research and Writing is equivalent to 50 clock 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!

I had a great experience with CLS. Well-organized content, accessible instructors, engaging coursework. Overall a great experience.

— Adam S.

CLS allowed me to get my certificate from the comfort of my own home and I loved that I could choose which main university the certificate would be coming from as well. Thank you for the positive experience!

— Anna I.

I was very impressed with the course content, knowledge and availability of the professor and pace of the course. Definitely recommend CLS!

— Jodi B.

The feedback from the online instructors and the CLS administrative staff was excellent! This was one of the most important factors for me since it is an online program. The online element of the CLS program is convenient, efficient and, to an certain extent, personalized to fit anyone’s particular needs.

— Josh M.

I enjoyed the CLS program because it was flexible, practical, and educational. All objectives were clearly laid out each week and I learned so much from all the reading and assignments. You work hard for your grades and it definitely pays off.

— Melanie R.

The online courses are great and convenient. They are perfect for someone working part or full-time.

— Brian H.