In the IRAC process, what is essential for the analysis/application step to occur?

In the IRAC (Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion) process, the analysis/application step is critical because it involves applying the relevant legal rules to the specific facts of the case. The choice of key facts is essential as they provide the context and specifics needed to evaluate how the law applies in a given situation.

Without identifying and understanding the key facts, the application of the law would be abstract and not tied to the realities of the case. The analysis requires a clear connection between these key facts and the established legal principles to discuss how the law influences the outcome. This step draws upon both the legal issue at hand and the relevant rules, but without the key facts, the application cannot effectively demonstrate the legal reasoning or the viability of the conclusions that could be drawn.

In summary, the analysis/application step relies on the key facts to contextualize the legal issue and assess how the rules apply, ultimately guiding the conclusion reached.