Understanding permissions

Most uses of Find Case Law judgments are free under the Open Justice Licence. This includes commercial use such as incorporating judgments into products or applications.

However, if you want to perform computational analysis, you need to apply for a separate licence. Computational analysis includes any programmatic searching in bulk across Find Case Law records to identify, extract or enrich contents within the records.

Here's what you can do freely, when you need permission and how to apply.

What you can do freely

You don't need permission for most uses of Find Case Law judgments, including:

• reading and downloading judgments
• using them for legal research and case preparation
• quoting them in academic work, articles, or publications
• sharing links to judgments
• teaching and educational purposes
• personal reference and study
• commercial use, such as incorporating into products or applications

When you need permission

You need to apply for a licence if you want to perform computational analysis. You can read a more detailed description of computational analysis in our glossary.

When you need permission explains what counts as computational analysis and whether your intended use requires a licence.

How to apply for a licence

If you need to perform computational analysis, we have a straightforward application process. You can read a more detailed description of computational analysis in our glossary.

What you need to apply for a licence explains:

• the 6 sections of the application form
• the 29 questions you'll need to answer
• how to prepare your application

Licence application process explains:

• how applications are assessed
• the approval process
• timelines and what to expect

There are no costs to apply for a licence to perform computational analysis.

Legal framework

If you need the detailed legal terms, read our legal framework for:

• the Open Justice Licence terms
• technical specifications for licensed uses
• legal definitions and conditions