Abstract
The aim of this article is to provide a short introduction to students, practitioners, and academics, who are considering a project that goes beyond doctrinal legal research. This includes those who are considering the common approach of “doing a few interviews” to supplement their doctrinal work. To illustrate the types of inquiry made in socio-legal research, the author uses research related to self-represented litigants. This article is overview of what is involved in creating and carrying out a socio-legal project.