Westlaw vs LexisNexis
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Get the legal research tool that best fits your needs — whether it's Westlaw or LexisNexis.
Start Free Trial🔍 Meet the Platforms
Westlaw
Thomson Reuters' legal research platform offering primary law, secondary sources, and proprietary analysis for legal professionals.
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LexisNexis
Comprehensive legal research and analytics platform providing case law, statutes, legal news, and practical guidance.
Visit LexisNexis⚙️ Side-by-Side Features
| Feature | Westlaw | LexisNexis |
|---|---|---|
| Case Law Search | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Legal Commentary | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| AI Research Suggestions | ✔️ | Partial |
| KeyCite / Shepard’s | KeyCite ✔️ | Shepard’s ✔️ |
| Practical Guidance Tools | ✔️ | ✔️ |
📊 Usage Statistics
| Metric | Westlaw | LexisNexis |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. Legal Documents | 40M+ | 50M+ |
| Global Jurisdictions | 60+ | 100+ |
| Users Worldwide | 500,000+ | 600,000+ |
| Years on Market | 30+ | 50+ |
🔒 Security Features
Westlaw
- Two-factor authentication
- Secure cloud hosting (AWS)
- Role-based access control
LexisNexis
- Single Sign-On (SSO)
- Encryption in transit & at rest
- Audit trails for all user actions
✅ Strengths & Limitations
Westlaw
- Strong editorial analysis
- Advanced KeyCite system
- Expensive for solo practitioners
- Limited global materials
LexisNexis
- Broader international scope
- Better integrated practice tools
- Interface less intuitive
- Shepard’s can be slower than KeyCite
💬 What Users Are Saying
Olivia R., Associate Attorney
“Westlaw's search functionality is unbeatable. I rely on KeyCite daily.”
Marcus D., Legal Analyst
“LexisNexis is my go-to for international content. Practical Guidance is a bonus.”
Janelle M., Law Librarian
“Both are strong — Westlaw for case law, Lexis for global reach.”