Side by side
BAILII vs Fastcase
Both stand on legal research software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Web
Choose BAILII for free web access to case law, legislation, and related legal materials with several search methods. Look elsewhere if you need an API or bulk downloading; commercial users and educational institutions are asked to make annual donations, with no required amount stated on the About page.
Visit BAILII
Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb+1
Fastcase provides legal research across several types of materials, with citation tools and mobile access. Check whether your bar association offers access and whether partner document charges apply.
Visit FastcaseThe facts
| BAILII | Fastcase | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Web | Android, iPhone, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Appellate: $695 a year |
| Plans published | 1 | 7 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | bailii.org | fastcase.com |
| On legal research software | #6 of 31 | #2 of 31 |
BAILII: what it does well
- Free database access without passwords or cookies.
- Search by keyword, date, citation, or Boolean operators.
- Browse databases by date or A–Z title list.
- LawCite supports searches across citations, parties, courts, and more.
- Includes case law, legislation, European Union case law, and Law Commission reports.
What to know first
- Bulk downloading is not permitted.
- The service does not have an API.
- Downloading large portions of the site may result in blocked access.
Fastcase: what it does well
- Searches cases, statutes, regulations, court rules and bar publications
- Includes Interactive Timeline and Authority Check
- Free mobile apps provide database access
- Clio integration supports time tracking and matter entries
What to know first
- Appellate costs $65 a month
- Additional charges may apply to some document access
- Premium trial lasts one day
Alternatives to BAILII Alternatives to Fastcase The whole list