Abstract
This is a contribution to the scholarly discussion concerning the limited use of the case study qualitative method in support of legal research. It demonstrates the use of the case study qualitative method in the context of an empirical legal research project, which examines stakeholder participation in the governance of social enterprises. Initially, a scholarly discussion concerning the content of interdisciplinarity and the foundations of empirical legal research sets the scene. The theoretical discussion reflects on the continuing discourse relating to the perceived advantages and limitations of the case study method in qualitative research. The article proceeds by illustrating the most important issues of validity and rigour in relation to the use of the case study method in qualitative research. The discussion extends to a thorough explanation of the techniques applied by the author in order to mitigate the perceived limitations and advance the perceived opportunities of the case study qualitative method.
Highlights
The article aims to discuss and demonstrate the use of the case study qualitative method in support of legal research
The interdisciplinary research project looks at the examination of national legislation and legal forms included in various legal systems, which are tailor-made for social enterprises
The theory suggests that the case study qualitative method can be applied as part of an interdisciplinary, empirical legal research project that is complementary and auxiliary to legal research based on a valid research question
Summary
The article aims to discuss and demonstrate the use of the case study qualitative method in support of legal research. The use of the case study qualitative method is discussed in the context of an interdisciplinary research project, which examines legal forms and stakeholder participation in the governance of social enterprises. The development of qualitative case studies and the use of empirical techniques are used to demonstrate how, in practice, implementation of national legal provisions influences stakeholders and decision-makers to participate in the decision-making processes of social enterprises. This type of inquiry cannot be answered within a framework that is only underpinned by legal positivism, the use of the case study method in qualitative research is much disputed and underused.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
