Law essays can be frustrating and overwhelming for many students as they require a certain format and style in order to be written effectively. Here are some tips to write a good law essay:
Write clearly. Read and understand the question and ensure that you get a clear idea of what is asked.
Identify the approach. Often, law essays ask you to evaluate something, reflect on something, write a critique, discuss a particular statement, reflect on a judge’s statement in a particular case, or discuss the impact of a case on an area of law. If the question asks for a comparison, you must identify the similarities and differences between the items being discussed, and ideally provide a conclusion as to which you think is preferable. If the question calls for a discussion, you must study and comment on the subject from all viewpoints, then reach your own conclusion.
Prepare the structure. The structure of the law essay is extremely important. For essays exceeding 10,000 words, it is appropriate to include a table of contents and chapter headings, as well as an introduction and conclusion. Chapters are particularly relevant where the answer covers a wide area of law and addresses several areas. Chapters will help both the writer and the reader achieve and maintain focus on the topic at hand. It is important to remember that one major criticism of law essays is that of writers drifting from the main topic and the angle they are meant to address. Another criticism is that the writer has a tendency to just list the legislation without any incisive opinions coming from the writer. A well written law essay therefore should make sure not to repeat these mistakes.
List your sources and make sure that these are current. It is extremely important because often, the questions written for a law essay have something to do with recent events or proposed changes in the law.
Take note of your university’s chosen referencing style and use it consistently throughout the citations in your law essay. It is vital to give credit when citing the work of another author, otherwise you can be accused of plagiarism. It is never acceptable to just copy and paste information from the internet, as is copying directly from a book without giving proper credit to its author or authors. Copying large portions from another work will not create a good impression even if these are give appropriate credit. Remember that the tutor or professor will be looking for your own comments, views and opinions based on thorough research from several sources and a sound interpretation of the law. For case law, the references you provide must be relevant and illustrative. Lastly, do not forget to include a full bibliography of all the books you have cited and consulted in making your law essay.