Side by side
RECAP vs SAFLII
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 ExtensioniPhoneWeb
RECAP combines PACER document sharing with searchable records and filing alerts. Its free access does not remove possible PACER charges for documents you buy.
Visit RECAP Free plan Web
SAFLII combines a broad collection of legal documents with configurable search and result controls. Its terms restrict automated collection, and users needing specific legal advice should consult a suitably qualified professional.
Visit SAFLIIThe facts
| RECAP | SAFLII | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Extension, iPhone, Web | Web |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | free.law | saflii.org |
| On legal research software | #15 of 31 | #19 of 31 |
RECAP: what it does well
- Searches an archive with tens of millions of PACER documents
- Includes scanned PDF pages in archive search
- Offers email alerts for followed cases and saved searches
- Archive is available through an API and bulk data
What to know first
- PACER may charge for documents purchased
- The extension uploads federal records to CourtListener
- No free trial is listed
SAFLII: what it does well
- Searches judgments, legislation, and legal commentary.
- Supports Boolean and proximity search operators.
- Sorts results by date, relevance, title, or database.
- Free public access does not require login details.
What to know first
- Terms prohibit scraping, crawling, API access, and bulk querying.
- SAFLII does not provide legal or professional advice.
- Free access is limited by copyright law.