CASE STUDY GUIDE

An adaptation from the research of Prof Teo C. Macabiog

Use and Advantage of the Case Study Method
This method is most effectively used to develop analytical and decision - making
skills. The case study method narrows the gap between theory and practice. It make
learning more meaningful and relative through active and direct involvement of the
learner. It encourages a multi-dimensional or holistic approach to problem situations. It
entertains as it instructs.
Case Study
Case study is the study of a particular situation or case or a problem in a given
scenario thoroughly after weighing the pros and cons, taking a practically feasible
decision in the best interests for effective implementation. Case study is a simulation of
an ethical situation that helps the students to react in a real situation and helps them by
providing right direction towards right decision making and problem solving.
What is a case?
A case is the description of a specific incident or a group of related events focused
on a precise problem or situation. It is a "close-up" portrayal of how people who were
concerned acted under the situation. It can be a real situation that actually happened
just as described, or portions have been disguised for reasons of privacy. Usually the
case can be brief or extensive running from 1 to 30 pages. As such, there is no specific
rule that the content should be limited or extended up to certain levels. The events
reported in a case are distinguishable from other events to such a degree that the
problem has relatively clear terminal points and can be analyzed apart from other
activities of the people concerned. The attention of the readers is focused on a significant
decision or a series of related decisions.
Case Analysis
A case analysis is the process of breaking down a case into rational, easily
understood parts which can be examined separately. It may be done in solitude, in small
groups or in a plenary session of the class. The method of analysis outlined below is
intended as a guide.
Case analysis steps:
1. List and classify the facts of the case.
Understand the context of the case. Understanding the background issues helps
to understand the context of the case. Comprehend the meanings of the facts both in
themselves and in their relationships. Ask and answer the following questions as you
read the case: What background facts influence the current problem/problems? What are
the constraints or obstacles of the situation?
2. Identify and state the critical ethical legal problems confronting the lawyer.
State the problem area. State the case analysis objective which is logically related
to the problem.
What and where is the problem? Attend to the primary problem. Sort the major
problem from the minor problems. Identify the evidence from the case which relates to
each problem. Identify underlying causes of the problems. What is your objective in the
case study.

3. Generate at least three (3) alternative courses of action to solve the

problem. Evaluate each alternative.
List appropriate courses of action to attain the objective and solve the problem.
The alternative should NOT CREATE ANOTHER PROBLEM. Evaluate the advantages and
disadvantages of each alternative.
Screen and short list alternatives. Using the SFA screening criteria is suggested.
a) Suitability is a criterion used to test if the said ACA would actually solve the
problem.
b) Feasibility is a criterion used to determine a particular ACA that can be
implemented with the available resources.
c) Acceptability is a criterion used to establish a relation if the said ACA would
be worth the cost or risk involved in its implementation.
Evaluate further the strengths of the shortlisted ACAs in terms of quality,
responsiveness, timeliness, ethics, risk in relation to gain, availability of resources or
repercussion on the human factor and environment. Generally, a good course of action
contributes to attainment of the lawyers goals.
4. Select the best course of action (from the 3 alternatives).
The best ACA has the most advantages and shows the most promise of solving
the problem. Justify your position. (Do not combine any of the ACAs)
5. Formulate a plan of action to implement the solution (chosen ACA).
What steps/activities should be done, by whom, where and when.
6. Integrate in your analysis (from problem identification to selection of best
alternative) the ethical concepts, principles and doctrines you learned from
your basic legal ethics and which are related to the case.
Relating the identified problem, alternatives and case evidence to appropriate
ethical legal concepts, principles and theories is vital when answering case studies. This
is where you demonstrate too your knowledge learned in the course and your ability to
relate it to practical situations.
Some pointers on the use of case study method:
1. Fulfill your obligation to study your case. Be a participant, not a parasite nor a loafer.
2. Do not use "lack of information" as an excuse for difficulties in analyzing a case. Make
reasonable and explicit assumptions about the missing facts.
3. State clearly the case problem and objective in sentence form.
4. Generate reasonable alternative courses of action. The alternative should not create
another problem.
5. Keep an open mind. Be flexible and receptive. Apply the art of disagreeing without
being disagreeable in dealing with differences of opinions.

6. There is no single right answer. There are always alternatives and expectation that the
best solution has not yet been found.
7. Link legal concepts, principles and doctrines in the case analysis.
8. Enjoy your case analysis as a way to develop your decision making and problem
solving skills.