vLex Fastcase is a new, improved, version of the existing Fastcase legal research platform with complimentary access to US legal materials for Kansas Bar Association members.
Enhanced by vLex’ s advanced AI-driven tools, vLex Fastcase provides the most comprehensive collection of legal content through a single intuitive platform. This allows for unparalleled efficiency and a competitive edge in case preparation and strategy.
vLex offers a robust platform that integrates artificial intelligence to enhance efficiency and accessibility. However, like any tool, vLex has its strengths and limitations. Here’s a breakdown of what KBA members might want to know about the platform's usability, effectiveness and AI capabilities.
Ease of Use and Accessibility
vLex is easy to use. It has a user-friendly design with a straightforward and intuitive interface. It looks and feels like other search engine which provides a certain comfort level when looking for cases. The search functionality is simple and effective, allowing users to search across databases, case law, legislation, and secondary sources in a way that is both accessible and flexible., vLex has minimized clutter and unnecessary features that can sometimes complicate legal research.
vLex Fastcase is also flexible with desktop and remote access. It is compatibility across multiple devices, which means the platform maintains a consistent experience, an increasingly valuable feature as remote work and mobile access become standard.
Read More about the new tools and features of vLex Fastcase - https://vlex.com/vlex-fastcase
AI Capabilities: A Powerful Research Ally
The integration of Vincent, vLex’s AI assistant, is a real highlight. Vincent uses natural language processing to help users find cases and legal documents that may otherwise be overlooked. Attorneys can input specific facts or legal issues, and Vincent will suggest relevant cases, statutes, and secondary sources. This AI-driven search can cut down research time significantly, making it ideal for busy practitioners who need to pinpoint relevant resources quickly.
However, the AI tools are not without some limitations. Although Vincent’s recommendations are generally useful, the platform occasionally pulls in sources that are only tangentially related. This can require attorneys to spend additional time verifying the relevance of certain documents, which could offset the time-saving benefit in more complex searches.
For KBA members, vLex is complementary. This makes it particularly attractive for solo and small-firm attorneys, offering high-value resources without the high cost associated with some traditional legal research platforms. However, there will be an added monthly subscription for those that wish to use Vincent AI. This feature has scaled pricing with individuals paying $399/month, small firms (2-10) paying $230-$270/month. Larger firms (>10) should contact vLex for contract pricing.
In summary, vLex is easy to use, compatible with other devices, covers all jurisdictions and uses AI tech, plus its free for KBA members. Downside, the AI tech cost additional and you need to sift through the AI results to ensure it captures the most appropriate items.
vLex Fastcase Timeline:
Through November 5, 2024, business as usual.
On or about November 6, 2024, users will begin to see a popup that offers the option of going to vLex Fastcase. Users will receive invitations to instructional webinars.
On or about December 6, 2024, users will go directly to vLex Fastcase, but have the option to return to Fastcase, by Clicking "Return to Fastcase 7" in their account settings.
