WestlawNext Pricing

As 3 Geeks and a Law Blog noted, "The pricing seems a wee bit steep."  Indeed, according to their calculation from a Thompson Reuters document called "WestlawNext: Pricing Guide for Commercial Plans," it can cost as much as $3,400 per hour.  That is the top end it seems, but it certainly flags for small firm lawyers that they need to investigate the pricing on their research plan up front.

One of the chief things that a solo or small firm lawyer needs to be aware of is what is (and is not) in your plan with WestLaw.  The beauty of WestlawNext is that it quickly gives your comprehensive and relevant results and gives you those results based on searching all the WestLaw databases, not just what is in your plan.  But when you click on and view documents from databases outside of your plan, ancillary costs kick in and can mount quickly.

Pricing is, of course, relevant.  One could certainly have a big case where getting the great and comprehensive results that WestlawNext promises is well worth it.

The solo or small firm lawyer needs to consider their research needs and how that fits into the WestlawNext pricing structure.  For more information on WestlawNext pricing so you can better understand how WestlawNext might (or might not) fit your needs:

• 3 Geeks and a Law Blog, WestlawNext Pricing:  Up to $3400 Per Hour
• Lisa Solomon, My WestlawNext Upgrade Negotiations:  Proof that West isn't Interested in the Solo Market
• Law Librarian Blog, In re WestlawNext Pricing:  "Hi, My Nmae is Johnny Westlaw, You Got the Money?

- Peter H. Berge

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