Fastcase
Affordable legal research with AI-powered search
Overview
Fastcase is a legal research platform offering access to primary legal sources at a significantly lower price point than Westlaw or LexisNexis. Its AI-powered search and visualization tools make it a strong choice for solo practitioners and public defenders.
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- ✓Often free with bar membership — exceptional value
- ✓Full US federal and state case law coverage
- ✓Interactive precedent map visualization tool
- ✓AI-ranked search results
- ✓Good mobile app for research on the go
✗ Cons
- ✗Smaller secondary source library than Westlaw/Lexis
- ✗Less robust international coverage
- ✗AI features less advanced than CoCounsel or Harvey
- ✗Citation tracking less comprehensive than KeyCite
Key Features
Best For
- •Solo practitioners
- •Public defenders
- •Legal aid attorneys
- •Small litigation firms
Common Use Cases
- •Affordable case law research for budget-conscious practices
- •Visualizing the web of precedent around a key case
- •Quick research via bar member free access
- •State court litigation research
Pricing
Included free with most state bar memberships. Direct plans start around $65/month for solos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fastcase really free with bar membership?
Most US state bar associations provide Fastcase access as a member benefit — check with your state bar to confirm.
Does Fastcase have a citator like KeyCite?
Fastcase includes 'Authority Check' for bad law detection, though it is less comprehensive than Westlaw's KeyCite or Lexis's Shepard's.
Alternatives to Fastcase
Quick Info
Disclaimer: This review is for informational purposes only. AI tool outputs require independent verification. Nothing on this site constitutes legal advice. Always consult a qualified attorney for legal matters.