Research memo template (free, with an authority table)
2026-10-06 · Research
A free, editable legal research memo template — IRAC structure plus an authority table with a confidence column and the LLM prompts to draft a memo safely.
Short answer
A memo is only as strong as its authorities. This template gives you the IRAC structure, an authority table with a confidence column, and a six-question verification checklist, so every citation is checked before the memo is sent.
The structure
- Question — stated precisely.
- Short answer — the conclusion in two sentences.
- Facts & assumptions — material facts and what you assume.
- Analysis — IRAC: Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion.
- Risks — what could change the answer.
- Next steps — what the client must decide or provide.
The authority table
| Authority | Citation | Proposition | Type | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Case (real) | [2020] AC 1 | Duty arises | Authority | High |
| — | — | Breach arguable | Reasoning | Medium |
Download the free template
Get the workbook and prompt pack: research-memo-template.xlsx · prompt pack.
Written for legal professionals. Not legal advice. Always verify every authority and let a named lawyer sign off.