Given the numerous user-friendly features available on Westlaw Edge, it’s no surprise that you can easily find a variety of information, including court dockets. Even if you don’t have the docket number, also known as the case number or file number, you can still perform a docket search with just a few simple steps.
Court Docket Search: The Basics
Whether you’re looking to find a case number online or simply want to pull up a docket using the docket number you already have, Westlaw Edge makes it a breeze.
Step 1: Access the Dockets Page on Westlaw Edge
To begin, simply click on the “Dockets” link, located under the “Content types” tab on the main page of Westlaw Edge. Alternatively, you can use the global search bar at the top and search for “dockets” to find the appropriate suggestion. Both options will lead you to the same destination.
Step 2: Select the Court for Your Docket Search
Once you’re on the docket page, you have a couple of options. You can either:
- Click on the specific court or jurisdiction you’re interested in, such as the U.S. Supreme Court; or
- Check the boxes next to the courts or jurisdictions you want to search and enter your search terms in the global search bar at the top. Note: Make sure to select the “Specify content to search” option if you want to use these checkboxes.
Keep in mind that there are numerous jurisdictions to choose from, ranging from federal to state dockets and everything in between. In most cases, you’ll likely be interested in a single court or jurisdiction. In such instances, the first option mentioned above will be your best choice. This will give you greater control and the ability to use templates for your docket lookup.
For example, clicking on “U.S. Supreme Court” will take you directly to a docket search page where you can utilize a template to search by participant name, docket number, attorney or law firm name, and filing date.
If you decide to explore a broader jurisdiction, such as California dockets, you’ll have the option to further narrow down your search, including specific federal courts, state courts, counties, and more. Once you’ve selected the specific court you need, you can continue your search using a template.
Step 3: Run Your Court Docket Search
After you’ve reached the specific search template for your desired court, enter your search information. While the templates may vary from court to court, you’ll typically have the option to search by party/participant name, filing date, key search terms, attorney/firm names, and, of course, docket number.
For instance, if you already have the docket number, simply enter it in the appropriate field to run a docket number search. Ensure you use the correct format when searching the full docket number. If you’re unsure about the format, you can find additional information by clicking on the scope icon.
Even if you don’t have the docket or case number, you can still perform a search using the other template options.
Once you’ve executed your search, select the correct docket from the results list. That’s it! With just a few clicks and a straightforward search, you can easily retrieve the docket you’re looking for.
Docket Lookup Using the Case Citation
If you have a case citation, there’s another easy way to find the case number or access the docket itself.
Simply “find” the case in Westlaw Edge by typing “find:” followed by the case citation into the global search bar at the top.
If you only need the docket or case number, it will be prominently displayed at the top of the case, just below the party names.
However, if you wish to view the docket itself, you can do so with just three simple clicks:
- Select “Filings” in the top left corner of the case.
- Choose “Dockets” from the left-hand margin.
- Select the specific docket you want to view. Remember to pick the docket associated with the exact court you desire, as multiple docks may be listed if the case has been handled by multiple courts.
It’s worth mentioning that these are just a few of the many ways to find dockets and docket-related information on Westlaw Edge.
Searching for a docket on Westlaw Edge is a breeze, regardless of which method you choose. With just a few clicks, you can access the information you need, enhancing your strategy and achieving better outcomes. Experience the power of Westlaw Edge for yourself by signing up for a free 7-day trial today.