LEGAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGY APPROACH IN ANALYZING LEGAL DEVELOPMENTS IN THE DIGITAL ERA

Abstract

The development of digital technology has brought significant changes in various aspects of life, including in the legal field. This transformation creates a new dimension in the formation, implementation, and enforcement of law, and presents complex challenges, such as personal data protection, cybercrime, and electronic transactions. This study aims to analyze the relevant legal research methodology approach in addressing the dynamics of law in the digital era by integrating normative and empirical approaches.

The normative approach is carried out through an analysis of the applicable legal framework, including Law Number 11 of 2008 concerning Electronic Information and Transactions (UU ITE) and Law Number 27 of 2022 concerning Personal Data Protection (UU PDP). In contrast, an empirical approach is used to evaluate the implementation of the rules through case studies, interviews, and field data. This study found that although the legal framework in Indonesia is quite adequate, implementation in the field faces obstacles, such as multiple interpretations of regulations, lack of harmonization of regulations, and limited technological and human resources.

Integration between normative and empirical approaches is a solution to bridge the gap between legal theory and practice. The results of this study recommend updating the methodology of legal research, increasing the capacity of law enforcement, and interdisciplinary collaboration to create adaptive, responsive, and just laws in the digital era. Thus, an innovative legal research methodology approach can make a significant contribution to updating the legal system to be more responsive to the challenges of the digital era.