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How to write a Law Essay

1/20/2013

1 Comment

 


Law Essays require a certain style and format if they are to be written effectively.

 Be Clear

 As with most essays, it is critical to read and understand the question and  be clear what you have been asked. This may sound obvious but all too often essays are given low marks because the question is not actually answered.
 
Identify Subject Matter

 The first thing is to clarify the subject matter so that you identify the area of law that is being addressed. Sometimes this will be obvious as when the  question asks about the differences between an offer and an invitation to treat
which will direct you towards the law of Contract.
However, sometimes the question is more obscure and this requires more effort in determining what the  subject matter is and might involve looking at more than one area of the law. If  a question asks about the terror laws, then this may well span human rights and constitutional law too.

Identify the Approach

 This is absolutely vital when answering a question. Often the essay will ask you to evaluate something; reflect on something; write a critique; discuss a particular statement; reflect on a judge's particular statement in a case, or discuss the  impact of a case on an area of law. If a question asks you to compare more than  one thing, then you must identify the similarities and differences between them, and ideally reach a conclusion as to which one you think is  preferable. If a question asks you to discuss something then you must study and comment on it from all viewpoints, and reach your own conclusion.


Prepare the Structure

 The structure of the  essay  is extremely important. If an essay exceeds 10,000 words, a contents page and chapter headings should be included and, even in shorter essays, it might be appropriate to set out chapter headings. Chapters are relevant where the  answer straddles a wide area of law and addresses several areas. Chapters help focus both the writer and the reader on what is being discussed and maintain  focus. One major criticism of law essays is that they drift from the main topic and angle that they are meant to address, and the thread and  point are lost. Another criticism is that the writer tends to just list the  legislation and discuss the topic without containing any incisive opinions of the writer. An introduction and  conclusion should be included.


Sources

 Make sure that your sources are current; this is vital because quite often questions are written which are impacted by recent changes or  even proposed changes in the law. So a question on Control Orders should be  looked at in the light of the proposed increase in detention periods and the impact on human rights.


Citation

The correct referencing should be used consistently throughout. It is vital to give credit when quoting someone else, otherwise the  essay may be plagiarised. It is never acceptable to cut and paste from the internet. Neither should you copy directly from a book unless you give the appropriate credit. Copying huge sections, even if credit is given, will not be looked upon favourably. The examiner will be looking for the writer's comments and own views and opinions, based on a sound interpretation of  the law and thorough research. The examiner will be looking to see that the writer has researched several resources. References to case law must be relevant and illustrative. Remember to include a full bibliography.


1 Comment
Carole M
2/10/2013 07:51:59 pm

Hi,
I really enjoyed your Blog and this article in particular. Writing a law essay is indeed an acquired art and I found the article helpful.
Like your site too; not complicated or gimicky.

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