If the power runs THROUGH the switch to the lights as you say, then your constant source of power is at the switch, not at the lights, so you can't power an "always on" receptacle by tapping into the cicruit at the lights. Are you sure the power runs to the switch first and then to the lights?

It would help others to respond if you explained if this is in an finished or unfinished basement and what the outlet is to be used for. It may not be a good idea to have it on a lighting circuit, and it may need to be GFCI protected.

Thank you bppark,,,

Ok I understnad. Its a finished basement, however we are remodeling and all the walls and ceiling are exposed since sheetrock has been removed. What I am trying to do, is actually add another receptacle that is outdoors. Now, its not really exposed to the elements. since the area where it is going is under our family room which is supported by piers etc and is 7" off the ground. So underneath stays dry, etc.

Hope this helps. Yes I am sure the power runs to the switch first. But I do have the capability of changing where the power source goes to and having the wire run to the ceiling lights first.

Thank you

Jim

Since the sheetrock is removed from the walls, you can run power from the switch box to the new outlet (which must be GFCI).