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Fastcase / vLex Fastcase

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By vLex (part of Clio) · Founded in 1999

Affordable legal research, now part of vLex / Clio.

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4.2(423 reviews)
What is Fastcase / vLex Fastcase?

Fastcase was founded in 1999 by Ed Walters and was the principal alternative to Lexis/Westlaw for solo and small-firm lawyers in the US, often offered free through state bar associations. Merged with vLex in 2023 and acquired by Clio in 2025. The Fastcase brand continues as the entry-point research tier within the vLex/Clio family.

Overview

Fastcase was founded in 1999 by Ed Walters and was the principal alternative to Lexis/Westlaw for solo and small-firm lawyers in the US, often offered free through state bar associations. Merged with vLex in 2023 and acquired by Clio in 2025. The Fastcase brand continues as the entry-point research tier within the vLex/Clio family.

Key Features

Federal and state case law
Bad-law identifier
Bar-association integration
Mobile apps
Dockets

Pros

  • Often free through state bar memberships
  • Most affordable price point for legal research
  • Now part of Clio ecosystem

Cons

  • Less editorial depth than Lexis or Westlaw
  • AI features less mature than Vincent (the vLex flagship)

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