Key Numbers legal definition of Key Numbers. Key Numbers synonyms by the Free Online Law Dictionary.

Key Numbers®

A system devised by West Group involving the classification of legal subjects that are organized within their publications according to specific topics and subtopics. Each topic and subtopic is given a key number which consists of one or more digits preceded by the symbol of a key assigned to each individual classification.

A particular point of law can be traced through different law books by following the cases listed under a Key Number in each series. West Group, formerly the West Publishing Company, developed the Key Number System of Classification during the decade spanning 1897–1906. The system is a valuable research tool because once the topic and Key Number have been located, a researcher has ready access to all American cases that have litigated that issue provided those cases have been reported. More than 425 Key Numbers in the system are arranged by subject matter under seven main headings—persons, property, contracts, torts, crimes, remedies, and government—and 32 subdivisions of the system.

Key Numbers are also a vital component of Westlaw™, an online resource for conducting Computer-Assisted Legal Research. The Key Numbers employed on Westlaw are identical to those used in the print counterparts to the on-line system.

Further readings

Kunz, Christina L., et al. 2000. The Process of Legal Research. 5th ed. Gaithersburg, Md.: Aspen Law & Business.

? References in periodicals archive
As a result, the EIA said it was to back up its usual Internet-based release of the data by simultaneously passing out hard copies at DoE headquarters and having staffers read out key numbers over the phone. Internet Problems May Affect DoE Data Release; The Way Oil Is Priced by APS Review Downstream Trends The "tube" is set up in various areas and all that needs to be done is to punch in a part, number and the operator has all the details plus the key numbers for set up. High technology according to Jerry Metz: 1984 Wood & Wood Products by Wood & Wood Products While the major figures forecast vary in the three scenarios, it is reassuring that most of the key numbers fall in a narrow range. The crystal ball tells all; possible fiscal scenarios for coming year ... by Riner, Deborah L. / Business Mexico More results

References in periodicals archive

As a result, the EIA said it was to back up its usual Internet-based release of the data by simultaneously passing out hard copies at DoE headquarters and having staffers read out key numbers over the phone.

Internet Problems May Affect DoE Data Release; The Way Oil Is Priced by APS Review Downstream Trends

The "tube" is set up in various areas and all that needs to be done is to punch in a part, number and the operator has all the details plus the key numbers for set up.

High technology according to Jerry Metz: 1984 Wood & Wood Products by Wood & Wood Products

While the major figures forecast vary in the three scenarios, it is reassuring that most of the key numbers fall in a narrow range.

The crystal ball tells all; possible fiscal scenarios for coming year ... by Riner, Deborah L. / Business Mexico

More results