This study investigates Problem Identification in Legal Research: The Key to Effective Legal Reform. The study focused on the nature of problem identification in legal research process and scope; understand the term legal reform, challenges and consequences of legal reform. To achieve the objectives, a systematic literature review was conducted. This involves extensive review of existing literature using textbook, books, journals and the internet. A documentary analysis was employed. The result shows that, the identification of a legal problem is pivotal in legal research. Legal research is carried out to resolve legal problem which is a key to legal reforms. Identifying legal problems incorrectly may lead to failure of establishing legal argument consequently, the problem will be unresolved. The legal problem is created by two relational propositions which include causal and functional relations. Carrying out legal research, the researcher needs legal research materials which may be primary and secondary legal materials. In conducting legal research, five types of approaches may be used. These include statute approach, case approach, historical approach, comparative approach and conceptual approach. More so, Legal research is applied research whose result is prescription in the form of legal opinion and recommendation which can leads to legal reform. Legal research is more than doctrinal research. Doctrinal research is only the study on reading and analyzing the primary materials and secondary materials. Legal research is carried out to resolve legal problems which lead to legal change. The function of research is to find the truth. Therefore, it discovers the coherence truth which is a key to legal reform. Furthermore, legal reform encompasses a comprehensive and systematic process of reassessment, review, and improvement of the legal framework within a society. It aims to address deficiencies, adapt to societal changes, and enhance the legal system's effectiveness, efficiency, and fairness. It scope covers substantive laws, procedural norms, legal institutions, and legal enforcement mechanisms. Legal changes involve transforming legal norms, principles, and practices within society. Legal reform sheds light on the role of political institutions and actors in shaping reform initiatives. It highlights the significance of political stability, ideological perspectives, and the presence of political will in determining the feasibility and success of legal changes.