legal essay writing examples

How to Write a First-Class Law Essay: Mastering the FIRAC Model

Law essays can be challenging, but they contribute significantly to the mastery of legal principles and enhancing a student’s legal research skills. A first-class law essay does not only demonstrate a thorough understanding of legal principles, but is also clearly structured and incredibly well-written. In this article, we will guide you on how to write a first-class law essay, delve into the FIRAC model of legal writing, and address frequently asked questions on law essay writing.

Below is an outline of the points that will be discussed in detail throughout the article:

Understanding the Essay Question and Planning

Comprehensive legal research, writing techniques for a first-class law essay, common faqs on law essay writing.

Table of Contents

The first step in writing a top-notch law essay is to understand the essay question and planning your response. You should take care to read and analyze the question provided, identifying the main issues, required legal areas, and the keywords that will guide your research. Create a rough essay plan, outlining the main arguments and research resources necessary to address the topic.

Thorough researched is necessary in order to write a first-class law essay.This involves examining relevant cases, statutes, academic articles, and other authoritative sources. It is crucial to:

• Build a strong foundation of understanding for the specific legal topics involved
• Identify any contrary viewpoints and conflicting interpretations of the law
• Familiarize yourself with critical legal developments that may affect your essay’s arguments

It is essential to keep track of your sources and their essential details, as you will need to reference them accurately in your essay.

Structuring a Law Essay: The FIRAC Model

The FIRAC model is a universally recognized method of organizing and presenting legal arguments in writing. It consists of:

Start by providing a concise and relevant summary of the facts and background of the issue beingaddressed. Be objective and neutral in your presentation, ensuring that your readers have a clear understanding of the context.

Clearly identify the specific legal issues that arise from the facts. This may involve direct questions or problems that need to be resolved by referring to legal authorities, such as legislation, case law, or academic commentary.

Set out the relevant legal rules, principles, and precedents that apply to the issues in question. Present a clear and comprehensive explanation of the legal authorities and how they apply to the facts.

d. Analysis:

In this section, critically analyze and weigh the various arguments and approaches concerning the legal issues at hand. Provide a detailed evaluation of the relevant legal authorities,discussing their strengths and weaknesses, and highlighting any ambiguities, disagreements, or gaps in the law that are relevant to the issues being addressed.

e. Conclusion:

Wrap up your essay by summarizing the main points, integrating your key findings and the implications of your analysis. Be sure to address the initial essay question and provide a clear answer or position based on your research and discussion. Finally, offer any recommendations or propose potential legal reforms if appropriate.

To ensure that your law essay stands out as first-class, it is essential to embrace effective writing techniques, such as:

• Clarity and precision: Use clear, concise language and avoid unnecessary jargon or verbosity. 2.Coherent organization: Organize your essay logically, ensuring that each section flows smoothly into the next.
• Strong argumentation: Build well-reasoned arguments supported by solid evidence, authoritative sources, and persuasive analysis.
• Critical thinking: Question assumptions, explore alternative viewpoints, and engage in thoughtful reflection and analysis.
• Proper citation and referencing: Adhere to a consistent citation style and accurately credit all sources used in your essay.
• Proofreading and editing: Always proofread and edit your essay meticulously, eliminating grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and awkward phrasing.

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about law essay writing:

How long should my law essay be?

The length of your law essay may vary, depending on the specific requirements and guidelines given by your instructor or institution. Typically, law essays range from 1,500 to 3,000 words, but it is crucial to adhere to the specified word count in your assignment.

How do I choose a citation style for my law essay?

Consult your assignment guidelines or ask your instructor for the preferred citation style used in legal writing at your institution, such as the Bluebook, Oxford Standard, or AGLC. Always use one citation style consistently throughout your essay.

Is it acceptable to use non-legal references in my essay?

While law essays primarily rely on legal authorities, it may be appropriate toinclude non-legal references, such as scholarly articles, reports, or empirical studies, to support your arguments or provide additional context. Always check with your instructor or assignment guidelines if you are unsure about using specific non-legal sources.

Can I use headings and subheadings in my law essay?

Headings and subheadings help organize your essay and guide your readers through your arguments. They are generally acceptable in law essays unless prohibited by your institution’s guidelines or your instructor’s preferences. Be sure to use a consistent formatting style for all headings and subheadings.

How can I avoid plagiarism in my law essay?

To avoid plagiarism, always accurately cite and reference any sources you use in your essay,whether they are direct quotes, paraphrased ideas, or summarized information. Also, ensure that your essay is primarily composed of your own original analysis and ideas, rather than relying too heavily on other sources. Make use of plagiarism-checking tools to identify potential areas of concern and correct them prior to submission.

By adhering to these guidelines and employing effective writing techniques, you can enhance the quality of your law essay and increase the likelihood of earning a first-class grade. Always remain diligent, focused, and committed to delivering thorough and engaging legal analysis throughout your academic writing endeavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Law Essays

In addition to following the guidelines and writing techniques, it’s important to avoid common mistakes when writing your law essay:

• Irrelevant or excessive detail : Stay focused on the essay question and avoid providing unnecessary or excessive details that don’t contribute to your central argument.
• Lack of structure: Ensure that your essay is logically organized, with clearly defined sections and a coherent flow from one section to another.
• Misunderstanding the question: Read the essay prompt carefully, and make sure you clearly understand what is being asked before drafting your response. Seek clarification if needed.
• Unsupported claims or arguments: Back up your claims with solid evidence and credible sources. Avoid makingassertions without sufficient justification or analysis.
• Overly complex language or jargon: Write in a clear and concise manner, using language that is accessible to your readers. Be mindful of using overly technical terms or legal jargon without explanation.
• Plagiarism: Always provide proper citation and referencing for all sources used. Take the necessary steps to ensure your work is original and does not plagiarize from other sources.
• Inadequate proofreading: Thoroughly proofread and edit your essay to correct grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and clumsy phrasing. Additionally, make sure your citations and references are accurate and formatted correctly.

By avoiding these common mistakes and adhering to the aforementioned guidelines andwriting techniques, you will significantly improve the quality of your law essay and increase your chances of achieving a high grade. Remember that practice makes perfect, and continually refining your skills in legal writing and analysis will contribute to your overall success in your academic and professional pursuits. So, stay committed, diligent, and focused on producing well-reasoned and coherent essays that demonstrate your understanding and mastery of legal principles and concepts. 

Happy writing!

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How to Write a First-Class Law Essay

Studying law at university entails lots of essay writing. This article takes you through the key steps to writing a top law essay.

Writing a law essay can be a challenging task. As a law student, you’ll be expected to analyse complex legal issues and apply legal principles to real-world scenarios. At the same time, you’ll need to be able to communicate your ideas clearly and persuasively. In this article, we’ll cover some top tips to guide you through the process of planning, researching, structuring and writing a first-class law essay with confidence. 

1. Start In Advance

Give yourself plenty of time to plan, research and write your law essay. Always aim to start your law essay as soon as you have the question. Leaving it until the last minute does not only create unnecessary stress, but it also leaves you insufficient time to write, reference and perfect your work.

2. Understand The Question

Do not begin until you fully comprehend the question. Take the time to read the question carefully and make sure that you understand what it’s asking you to do. Highlight key terms and annotate the question with definitions of key concepts and any questions that you have have. Think about how the question links back to what you’ve learned during your lectures or through your readings.

3. Conduct Thorough Research

Conducting thorough research around your topic is one of the most fundamental parts of the essay writing process. You should aim to use a range of relevant sources, such as cases, academic articles, books and any other legal materials. Ensure that the information you collect is taken from relevant, reliable and up to date sources. Use primary over secondary material as much as possible.

Avoid using outdated laws and obscure blog posts as sources of information. Always aim to choose authoritative sources from experts within the field, such as academics, politicians, lawyers and judges. Using high-quality and authoritative sources and demonstrating profound and critical insight into your topic are what will earn you top marks.

4. Write A Detailed Plan

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to plan your essay. When writing your plan, you’ll need to create an outline that clearly identifies the main points that you wish to make throughout your article. Try to write down what you wish to achieve in each paragraph, what concepts you want to discuss and arguments you want to make.

Your outline should be organised in a clear, coherent and logical manner to ensure that the person grading your essay can follow your line of thought and arguments easily.  You may also wish to include headings and subheadings to structure your essay effectively This makes it easier when it comes to writing the essay as starting without a plan can get messy. The essay must answer the question and nothing but the question so ensure all of your points relate to it.

Start Writing Like A Lawyer

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5. Write A Compelling Introduction

A great introduction should, firstly, outline the research topic.  The introduction is one of the most crucial parts of the law essay as it sets the tone for the rest of the paper. It should capture the readers attention and provide the background context on the topic. Most importantly, it should state the thesis of your essay.

When writing your introduction, avoid simply repeating the given question. Secondly, create a road map for the reader, letting them know how the essay will approach the question. Your introduction must be concise. The main body of the essay is where you will go into detail.

6. Include A Strong Thesis Statement

Your thesis should clearly set out the argument you are going to be making throughout your essay and should normally go in the introduction. Your thesis should adopt a clear stance rather than being overly general or wishy-washy. To obtain the best grades, you’ll need to show a unique perspective based upon a critical analysis of the topic rather than adopting the most obvious point of view.

Once you’ve conducted your research and had a chance to reflect on your topic, ask yourself whether you can prove your argument within the given word count or whether you would need to adopt a more modest position for your paper. Always have a clear idea of what your thesis statement is before you begin writing the content of your essay. 

7. Present the Counter-argument

To demonstrate your deeper understanding of the topic, it’s important to show your ability to consider the counter-arguments and address them in a careful and reasoned manner. When presenting your counterarguments, aim to depict them in the best possible light, aiming to be fair and reasonable before moving on to your rebuttal. To ensure that your essay is convincing, you will need to have a strong rebuttal that explains why your argument is stronger and more persuasive. This will demonstrate your capacity for critical analysis, showing the reader that you have carefully considered differing perspectives before coming to a well-supported conclusion.

8. End With A Strong Conclusion

Your conclusion is your opportunity to summarise the key points made throughout your essay and to restate the thesis statement in a clear and concise manner.  Avoid simply repeating what has already been mentioned in the body of the essay. For top grades, you should use the conclusion as an opportunity to provide critical reflection and analysis on the topic. You may also wish to share any further insights or recommendations into alternative avenues to consider or implications for further research that could add value to the topic. 

9. Review The Content Of Your Essay

Make sure you factor in time to edit the content of your essay.  Once you’ve finished your first draft, come back to it the next day. Re-read your essay with a critical perspective. Do your arguments make sense? Do your paragraphs flow in a logical manner? You may also consider asking someone to read your paper and give you critical feedback. They may be able to add another perspective you haven’t considered or suggest another research paper that could add value to your essay. 

10. Proofread For Grammatical Mistakes

Once you’re happy with the content of your essay, the last step is to thoroughly proofread your essay for any grammatical errors. Ensure that you take time to ensure that there are no grammar, spelling or punctuation errors as these can be one of the easiest ways to lose marks. You can ask anyone to proofread your paper, as they would not necessarily need to have a legal background – just strong grammar and spelling skills! 

11. Check Submission Guidelines

Before submitting, ensure that your paper conforms with the style, referencing and presentation guidelines set out by your university. This includes the correct font, font size and line spacing as well as elements such as page numbers, table of content etc. Referencing is also incredibly important as you’ll need to make sure that you are following the correct referencing system chosen by your university. Check your university’s guidelines about what the word count is and whether you need to include your student identification number in your essay as well. Be thorough and don’t lose marks for minor reasons!

12. Use Legal Terms Accurately

Always make sure that you are using legal terms accurately throughout your essay. Check an authoritative resource if you are unsure of any definitions. While being sophisticated is great, legal jargon if not used correctly or appropriately can weaken your essay. Aim to be concise and to stick to the point. Don’t use ten words when only two will do.

12. Create a Vocabulary Bank

One recurring piece of advice from seasoned law students is to take note of phrases from books and articles, key definitions or concepts and even quotes from your professors. When it comes to writing your law essay, you will have a whole range of ideas and vocabulary that will help you to develop your understanding and thoughts on a given topic. This will make writing your law essay even easier!

13. Finally, Take Care of Yourself

Last but certainly not least, looking after your health can improve your attitude towards writing your law essay your coursework in general. Sleep, eat, drink and exercise appropriately. Take regular breaks and try not to stress. Do not forget to enjoy writing the essay!

Words by Karen Fulton

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Law Essay Examples

10+ Winning Law Essays Examples | Boost Your Grades Now

Published on: May 8, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 30, 2024

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Are you looking for inspiration to get started on your law essay? If so keep reading! 

As a law student, you're expected to have excellent writing skills. Your essays should be well-structured, articulate, and persuasive. However, it's not always easy to know where to start or how to approach your writing. 

That's where law essay examples come in - they provide a valuable resource that can help guide you through the process.

In this blog, we'll explore the law essay examples on different topics. Moreover, we will analyze the structure and format of a law essay. 

So, let's get started!

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What is a Law Essay? 

A law essay is a written assignment that requires the writer to analyze and evaluate legal issues, cases, or concepts. 

The purpose of a law essay is to demonstrate a student's understanding of the subject matter. It also shows the student's ability to present an argument in a concise manner. 

Want to gain more knowledge on how to write a high-quality law essay? Check out this video for insightful tips!

University Law Essay Examples

Let's take a closer look at some excellent university law essay examples that highlight the proper use of references.

Law Reflective Essay Example

Law Enforcement Essay Example

Law Reform Essay Example

Law Research Essay Example

Below, you will find some additional law essay samples that you may come across in your university assignments.

First Class Law Essay Example

Law School Transfer Essay Example

Law School Why X Essay Example

Law Essay Format and Structure

A well-structured and formatted law essay is essential for receiving high marks. Here are some key elements that should be included:

1. Introduction

• The introduction should introduce the main arguments of the essay.
• The first sentence should be attention-grabbing.
• The introduction should provide concise information about the broader significance of the topic.
• It should lead into the body of the essay.
• Each paragraph should have a clear topic sentence.
• The paragraph should include supporting evidence and analysis.
• The paragraphs should be logically connected.

3. Conclusion:

• The conclusion should summarize the main arguments of the essay.
• It should not introduce new information.
• It should demonstrate the significance of the arguments.

Let's take a look at an example of a well-structured law essay:

Check out the following pdfs for a better understanding:

Law Essay Format pdf

Law Essay Introduction Example pdf

Specific Law Essay Topics

Let's take a look at some specific law essay topic examples that can provide a foundation for deeper analysis.

Criminal Law Essay Example

Case Law Essay Example

Law Case Analysis Essay Example

Contract Law Essay Example

Ilac Law Essay Example

Public Law Essay Example

Critical Analysis Law Essay Example

Contract Law Essay Example Offer Acceptance

Additional Law Essay Samples

Let's explore some of the most frequently assigned law essay topics for writing assignments.

Development of Welfare Legislation for Animal Testing

Legal Analysis of Donald Trump's Leadership Style

Torts of Negligence and Battery in Medical Law

The Frustration of Contract in the Coronation Cases

Effectiveness of Gun Control Laws in the United States

The Unjust Intersection of Police Brutality and Racism

Nike Faces Gender Discrimination Lawsuit

A Dream to Become a Lawyer

Hate Crime Laws

Law Essay Writing Tips and Best Practices

Writing a law essay can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Here are some tips and best practices to help you write a successful law essay:

• Understand the assignment: Before you start writing your essay, make sure you understand the assignment requirements. This includes the topic, formatting requirements, and any specific instructions from your professor.
• Research extensively: A good law essay requires thorough research on the topic. Make use of primary and secondary sources, such as case law, legal journals, and academic articles, to support your arguments.
• Plan your essay: Before you start writing, plan your essay structure. This includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The body paragraphs should be organized logically, with each paragraph focusing on a specific point or argument.
• Use clear and concise language: The language used in a law essay should be clear, concise, and precise. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be unfamiliar to the reader. Use plain language that is easy to understand.
• Cite your sources: In a law essay, it is important to cite your sources properly. Use the appropriate citation style, such as APA or MLA.  Make sure to include a bibliography or reference list at the end of your essay.
• Use reputable sources: Ensure that your sources are reputable and reliable. Use academic databases, such as LexisNexis or Westlaw, to find legal cases and journal articles.
• Seek feedback: It can be helpful to seek feedback from your professor or a peer before submitting your essay. This can help you identify any areas that need improvement and ensure that your arguments are persuasive and well-supported

Common Mistakes To Avoid In Law Essay Writing

Here are some most common mistakes to avoid when writing a law essay:

• Failing to answer the question: Make sure that your essay clearly answers the question posed.
• Lack of clarity: Ensure that your essay is clear, concise, and well-organized.
• Plagiarism: Avoid plagiarism by properly citing all sources used in your essay.
• Inaccurate legal analysis: Ensure that your legal analysis is accurate and supported by legal authority.
• Poor syntax: Use proper grammar and syntax to ensure that your essay is well-written and easy to understand.

How To Edit And Proofread Your Law Essay 

Here are some great tips to perfect your law essay:

• Take a break: Take a break before editing and proofreading to ensure a fresh perspective.
• Review for clarity: Review your essay for clarity, ensuring that your arguments are well-supported and easy to understand.
• Check for accuracy: Check your essay for accuracy, including legal analysis and citations.
• Check for grammar and spelling: Check for proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation.
• Read aloud: Read your essay aloud to catch any errors or awkward phrasing.

To sum it up!

Writing a law essay requires careful planning, extensive research, and attention to detail. Throughout this blog, we have explored different law essay examples. We have also discussed the format and structure of a well-written law essay. 

By avoiding common mistakes and following best practices, you can write a successful essay. However, if you find yourself struggling with your law essay, do not hesitate to seek help from CollegeEssay.org .

We offer top-quality essay writing service to students at all academic levels. 

Get in touch with our law essay writing service now and say ' write my essay ' and let us help you achieve your academic goals!

Also, give our AI essay writing tools a try!

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Public Law for Everyone

by Professor Mark Elliott

Writing a Law essay? Remember to argue!

Providing advice in the abstract about how to write Law essays is difficult because so much depends on the nature of the question you are answering. It’s also important to take into account whatever are the expectations for your particular course, degree programme or university. Nevertheless, a useful rule of thumb, I think, is that a good Law essay will normally set out and advance a clear thesis or argument . (Note that I’m referring here to essays as distinct from problem questions: the latter call for a different approach.)

The need for an argument

Some answers explicitly call for this. Take, for example, the following essay title:

‘Do you agree that parliamentary sovereignty is the most important principle in the UK constitution?’

Here, the question itself in effect advances an argument — that parliamentary sovereignty is the most important principle in the constitution — and invites you to say whether you agree with it or not. And in saying whether you agree, you need to advance your own argument: ‘I agree with this because…’. Or: ‘I disagree because…’. Or even (because if the question advances a position that you think implies a misconception, oversimplification or false premise, you can say so): ‘I will argue that the question oversimplifies matters by assuming that a particular constitutional principle can be singled out as uniquely important…’

Other questions may indicate in a less direct way the need for you to put forward your own argument. For example:

‘“Parliamentary sovereignty is the most important principle in the UK constitution.” Discuss.’

Here, we don’t have a ‘do you agree?’ prompt; instead, we have the apparently less directive ‘discuss’ prompt. If we read the question literally, it may seem that there is no need for you to put forward your own argument here. After all, it’s possible to ‘discuss’ something without advancing your own argument about it: you could make various points, explain various matters, and leave the reader to make up their own mind. But while this may be formally true, it’s unwise to read the question in this way, because it creates the risk that you will end up writing something very general and descriptive on the topic without going any further.

To summarise, then, there are at least three reasons for making an argument part of your essay. First, the question will often call for this, whether explicitly or implicitly, such that you wouldn’t be answering the question if you didn’t set out and develop an argument. Second, if you don’t impose on yourself the discipline of articulating and defending an argument, you risk underselling yourself by writing something that is descriptive and meandering rather than purposefully constructed . Third, setting out and developing an argument involves taking ownership of the material. By that, I mean using the material in a way that serves the purposes of your argument, showing that you are in command of it and that it is not in command of you. This, in turn, provides an opportunity to demonstrate a level of understanding that it would be hard to show in a descriptive essay that simply wandered from point to point.

Setting our your thesis

If putting forward an argument is (often) important or necessary, how should it be done? There are no great secrets here: the formula is straightforward. You should begin your essay by stating your thesis — that is, by setting out what it is that you are going to argue. This should be done in your introductory paragraph — by the time the reader reaches the end of that paragraph, they should be in no doubt about what you are going to argue. Imagine, for instance, that you are presented with the following essay title:

‘“The courts have expanded their powers of judicial review beyond all acceptable constitutional limits in recent decades; it is time to clip the judges’ wings.” Discuss.’  

In response to such a question, it might be tempting to say in your introduction that (for example) you are going to ‘show’ how the courts’ powers of judicial review have grown, ‘consider’ why this has happened and ‘examine’ the criticisms of judicial over-reach that have resulted. These are all perfectly sensible things to do when writing an essay on this topic, but if that is all you say in your introduction, you will leave the reader wondering what you think — and what you are going to argue . In contrast, an introductory paragraph that lays the foundation for essay that properly advances a thesis will set out what that thesis is. You might, for instance, take each of the propositions set out in the question and stake out your position:

‘In this essay, I will argue that (a) while the courts’ powers of judicial review have grown in recent decades, (b) it is misguided to suggest that this has breached “all acceptable constitutional limits” and (c) that those who now advocate “clip[ping] the judges’ wings” misunderstand the role of the judiciary in a rule of law-based constitution. In other words, the courts’ judicial review powers are entirely appropriate and those who seek to limit them risk undermining the rule of law.’  

An introduction of this nature would achieve two things. First, it would make clear to the reader the position you proposed to take. Second, it would immediately lend the essay a structure.

Developing your thesis

Once you have set out your thesis in the introduction, you need to develop or defend it. This will involve making a series of connected points in successive paragraphs, each of which relates to your overarching thesis. One way of thinking about this is that the individual points you make in the main body of the essay should all relate or point back in some way — and in a clear way — to the position that you staked out in the introduction.

In the example introduction above, the overarching thesis is set out in the second sentence; the individual and connecting parts of the argument are set out in propositions (a), (b) and (c) in the first sentence. One approach, therefore, would be to divide the answer, once the introduction has been written, into three parts, dealing in turn with points (a), (b) and (c). Naturally, as you work through the various parts of your argument, you will need to cite relevant evidence (cases, legislation, literature and so on) in support of your argument. You will also need to deal with matters that appear, at least at first glance, to sit in opposition to your argument (on which see further below) or which, once properly considered, require your argument to be refined.  

A key point, however you proceed, is that the reader should also be clear about how each successive point relates not only to the previous point but also to the overarching argument. The reader should never be left wondering ‘Where does this fit in?’ or ‘Why am I being told this?’ A simple way of avoiding these problems is to signpost , by saying at the beginning of each section how it relates to the overall argument. The flipside of this coin is that you should avoid saying things like ‘Another point is that…’ since this gives the impression, rightly or wrongly, that the various points in your essay have been thrown together in a random order, with little thought as to how they fit together or relate to your overall argument. Even if that’s not the case, you don’t want to risk giving the reader that impression.

A one-sided approach?

The advice set about above might seem to imply that I’m suggesting you write one-sided essays — in which you set out points that support your argument while ignoring those that don’t. However, that’s not at all what I’m suggesting. In order to set out your argument in a persuasive manner, you need to deal both with relevant points that support your argument and with relevant points that appear to challenge your argument — and, in dealing with the latter points, you need to show why they do not in fact fatally undermine your argument. In other words, the approach I’m suggesting here doesn’t mean that you should adopt a blinkered approach, paying no attention to counterarguments: rather, you need to deal with them in a way that shows that, having thought about and weighed them in the balance, you are in a position to show why your argument stands in spite of them (or why your argument can be adapted in a way that accommodates such points).  

All of this points towards a further matter: namely, that advancing an argument in your essay does not mean that you need to (or should) be argumentative in the sense of adopting a strident tone that brooks no debate or compromise. Rather, advancing an argument in the way I’ve suggested here means being thoughtful and persuasive : taking the reader with you on a journey that demonstrates that you have looked at the relevant material, carefully thought through the issues raised by the question, and arrived at a view that you are able to justify and defend through well-reasoned and suitably evidenced argument.

So what about your conclusion? If you’ve followed my advice above, it should more or less write itself. People often agonise over conclusions, perhaps thinking that there has to be some ‘big reveal’ at the end of their essay. But there doesn’t need to be — and indeed there shouldn’t be — any big reveal. There should be no surprises at the end precisely because you’ve set out your argument at the beginning and spent the rest of the essay carefully constructing the different strands of your argument. The conclusion is an opportunity to draw those stands together, but no-one should have to wait with bated breath for the conclusion before finally realising: ‘Ah, so that’s what they think!’ If that’s the impact of the conclusion on your reader, it means there’s something wrong with the introduction!

This post was first published on The Law Prof blog . It is re-published here with permission and thanks.

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Legal Writing I & II: Legal Research and Writing & Introduction to Litigation Practice

(0 reviews)

Ben Fernandez

Copyright Year: 2020

ISBN 13: 9798746520340

Publisher: Ben Fernandez

Language: English

Formats Available

Conditions of use.

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Part I: Objective Writing
• 1. Sources of Law
• 2. Legal Research 
• 3. Briefing Cases
• 4. Applying Cases and Analogical Reasoning
• 5. Analyzing Statues and Marshaling Facts
• 6. Citation
• 8. Objective Legal Memoranda
• 9. Other Examples of Legal Writing
• 10. Improving Your Writing
• Part II: Persuasive Essay
• 11. Credibility
• 13. Ethical Rules for Advocacy
• 14. Civil and Appellate Procedure
• 15. Requirements for Civil Motions and Standards for Appeals
• 16. Persuasive Writing
• 17. Memoranda in Support of MOtions
• 18. Motion Session
• 19. Appellate Briefs
• 20. Oral Argument
• Case Briefing Exercise
• Clampitt v. Spencer
• Eppler v. Tarmac
• Sample Case Briefs
• Clampitt v. Spencer Brief
• Eppler v. Tarmac Brief
• Case Analogy Exercise
• Malczewski v. Florida
• Sample Case Analogy
• IRAC Exercise
• Young v. Kirsch
• State Farm V. Mosharaf
• Southland v. Thousand Oaks
• Sample IRAC
• Legal Memorandum Exercise 
• Sample Legal Memorandum
• About the Author

Ancillary Material

About the book.

Legal Writing I & II; Legal Research and Writing & Introduction to Litigation Practice contains a brief discussion of all of the topics covered in a law school courses on legal writing, including a typical first semester course on legal research, analysis and writing an objective memorandum, as well as a second semester course on persuasion and writing an appellate brief, motion to dismiss or motion for summary judgment. The discussion focuses on the basics of analogical reasoning and persuasion and leaves out the minutiae. Each topic is taken one step at a time, with each step building on the step before it. The sources of law are presented first, then legal research, and reading and analyzing cases and statutes. The book covers analogizing a case to a fact pattern and marshaling the relevant facts to the elements of a statutory rule next. And then first section of the book concludes with legal citation, CRAC and CREAC, and writing a legal research memorandum. The text also includes a lot of samples and examples of how the author would write a case brief, a legal memoranda and an appellate brief, as well as an appendix with charts, outlines and exercises students can use to practice these skills. Legal Writing I & II; Legal Research and Writing & Introduction to Litigation Practice covers all the skills students need to know to work at a law firm, and everything students have to learn to begin practicing in litigation department of a firm.

About the Contributors

Ben Fernandez,  University of Florida Levin College of Law

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Master Legal Writing with the IRAC Method

• ALU Site Admin
• January 29, 2021
• No Comments

Meet your new law school friends: Issue, Rule, Application, and Conclusion (IRAC). Start out on the right foot together with these examples and tips for writing with IRAC. 

If you think writing stops when you graduate from college, think again. Those general education credits you took all those semesters ago for English will come in handy, especially if you want to pursue law. 

Don’t worry. You probably won’t be asked to write a persuasive essay or analyze another TED Talk video for ethos, pathos, and logos. With the popularity of online law school on the rise, you may even be able to dodge the Socratic method experience. But there is something called the IRAC method that aspiring law school students should prepare to learn.

Whether you’re considering law school , taking classes, or about to graduate and join a firm, IRAC is going to crop up one way or another in the legal world. 

Note: CRAC (Conclusion, Rule, Application, Conclusion) or CREAC (Conclusion, Rule, Explanation, Application, Conclusion) are other forms of IRAC, but the elements are the same. 

What Does IRAC Stand For? 

‘Issue’ refers to the legal matter at hand. Clearly define what it is, the parties involved, and provide sufficient background. 

This element represents the legal rule(s) that apply in the case being discussed.

A: Analysis 

This is where you apply the rule of law to the facts of the case. The “answer” or explanation of the relevant laws and case laws should be included in your analysis. It doesn’t hurt to include several as long as they’re applicable.

C: Conclusion

The conclusion is a summary of your legal analysis. Remember to end on a strong note while sticking to the facts.

Considerations When Using the IRAC Method

We’ll explore each of these in more detail. But first, here are some elements to consider about legal writing :

• Students tend to let their thoughts run away with them or cut their thoughts short. Be brief. If a sentence isn’t a clarifying detail, then it probably shouldn’t be included.
• Remember that you want to be a lawyer, not a novelist. Stick to the facts, plain and simple, short, and to the point. If there’s no point, it’s of no use. 
• Who, what, when, where, why, and how are always relevant when writing legal memos and briefs. And even though they’re not technically included in IRAC, they’re just as important.
• Always double check your facts . There’s a reason why “fact-checker” is a job title. Unfortunately, not all lawyers have that luxury, especially when you’re just beginning to dip your toes into the sea of laws and legal terms. Read and reread your documents thoroughly before submitting them. 
• While you’re at it, check for grammar and punctuation errors, too. Just like knowing the difference between an intentional tort and negligence is important, spelling and syntax are also essential.

The Issue: Put it on the Table

When you hand in a memo, the first thing your reader should see is the question you’re trying to answer. That question should be the issue you’re going to be addressing, and your answer needs to cover all the main legal aspects of the problem. A good tip is never to use specific names. Keep it as general as possible.

An easy guide to follow might look something like this:

Under [blank one] law, [blank two] when [blank three]?

By using “under,” you can narrow down the location (i.e., the state the issue is taking place in) before moving on to the issue of crime or liability. 

Another tip is to hold off on writing the issue until the rest of your piece is written. Take the conclusion and condense it into a single sentence. Then, all that’s left to do is finish it off with a flourish shaped like a question mark.

“Yes” or “no” needs to be the simple answer to the question.

The Rule: Clear and Simple

This answer is the short portion of your IRAC. Unfortunately, there’s no rule of thumb to go with it because every school and employer has its preferences. 

However, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Like your question (issue), the tone should be kept neutral and avoid any names of the party members involved and other proper nouns.
• Don’t go into detail about what the law is. Assume your audience is familiar with the law already. Instead, explain in just a few sentences what you expect the legal outcome to be.
• If several laws could be applicable in the case, you may need to have more than one rule statement , perhaps several. As you reread, be sure to check that the number of rules matches the number of issues you’ve stated.
• Use a definitive tone , even if the statutes or case laws referenced aren’t strictly applicable to the issue. 
• Even writers break the rules sometimes. For lawyers, one of those times is when you’re stating the rule . It may look like a run-on sentence from one of the required readings in your prerequisite course, but that’s okay.

An example: 

No, the employer cannot be sued for a worker’s injury because workers’ compensation not only covers the costs of recovery for the injured employee but protects the employer against lawsuits. 

The Analysis: Be Specific

The analysis of your IRAC is usually the most challenging portion because it asks the writer to be specific, and the style is often inconsistent. It’s essential to know the grammatical and style rules set forth by your boss or professor in order to write an IRAC that will pass inspection. 

Here are some general tips:

• Be as geographically accurate as you can. If a past case took place in the same state or city as the issue you’re addressing, refer to it as much as possible. 
• By rule, criminal law cases require a statute to be referenced, whereas a civil law case may not have appropriate statutes.
• At least two sources (minimum) are required for both criminal and civil cases.
• Proper citations are critical, which means the Bluebook and Association of Legal Writing Directories (ALWD) are your new best friends for citing cases.
• Subheadings are welcome for cases where more than one issue is being addressed. Use them to define individual legal topics.
• Draw similarities between your case and the ones you’re referencing by writing analogies such as: Like the plaintiff who was injured by the defendant’s dog, our client was scratched by the neighbor’s cat.

The Conclusion: Last but Never Least

Probably every lawyer’s favorite part of the IRAC is the Conclusion because it means they’re almost done writing! Like every high school and college essay you ever wrote, this is where you summarize the entirety of your legal findings. 

Your conclusion generally shouldn’t be any longer than a paragraph and needs to address the legal issue one more time. If there’s more than one issue, make sure each one is addressed. The conclusion should also offer the expected legal ruling. 

No two conclusions are ever precisely the same, but an example might be:

Mr. Golden cannot be sued for Mr. Delicious’s slip and fall from the refrigerator because Mr. Golden offers workers’ compensation to his employees; therefore, he is protected against a personal injury lawsuit. The civil claim should be dismissed.

Stay With It

The IRAC method isn’t as bad as you might think. It just takes a little bit of practice and a lot of muscle memory. 

One last tip: worry about the format later. Put those ideas running around your brain down on paper first, then you can arrange them into proper paragraphs. And don’t be shy about using examples to guide you for future IRAC assignments. 

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How to Write a Law Essay: 8 Steps

December 28, 2023

1. Choosing an Essay Topic

When it comes to writing a law essay, choosing an appropriate topic is crucial. A well-chosen topic will make your research and writing process smoother and more enjoyable, while a poorly chosen topic can lead to frustration and a lackluster essay.

Firstly, consider what has piqued your interest in your law studies so far. Perhaps there was a case or topic that you found particularly intriguing, or an aspect of law that you feel needs further exploration. Alternatively, you could focus on a current legal issue that you feel strongly about and want to delve deeper into.

It’s also important to make sure your topic isn’t too broad or too narrow. Too broad of a topic can result in a lack of focus, while a topic that is too narrow won’t give you enough research material to work with.

Ultimately, choosing a law essay topic is about finding a balance between your personal interests and the practical aspects of your assignment. Take the time to carefully consider your options, and don’t be afraid to ask for input or guidance from your professor or classmates.

Possible Law Essay Topics

• The impact of social media on defamation laws.
• Analyzing the constitutionality of mandatory minimum sentencing.
• The effectiveness of restorative justice in reducing recidivism rates.
• Legal implications of artificial intelligence in the workplace.
• Exploring the rights of privacy versus national security in the digital age.
• Examining the legal and ethical issues surrounding euthanasia.
• Assessing the role of international law in combating climate change.
• Analyzing the legal framework for cyberbullying and online harassment.
• The legalization and regulation of recreational marijuana: a critical analysis.
• Exploring the intersection of intellectual property rights and emerging technologies.

Remember to choose a topic that aligns with your interests and research availability, while ensuring that it is adequately focused for a detailed analysis within the scope of your essay.

2. Researching the Topic

Before diving into writing a law essay, it’s essential to conduct thorough research on the chosen topic. This step is critical to ensure that the essay is factually correct, well-supported, and logically structured. Here are some tips on how to research effectively for a law essay:

• Begin by gathering basic information. Use specialized textbooks, journals, and databases to gain a foundational understanding of the topic.
• Use secondary sources to gain a broader perspective on the topic. Utilize reputable news sources, government publications, and online legal databases to broaden your search.
• Access case law. To support your arguments, cite legal cases that illustrate your argument. Access online case law databases that have accessible search functions.
• Use primary sources. Primary sources include statutes, regulation, and the constitution. It’s important to have a good grasp of the primary sources since they are the basis of much of legal research.
• Take notes. Keep track of all relevant information, including sources and citations. Use an organized format that will make outlining and writing the essay a simpler process.
• Evaluate and analyze. Through the research process, it’s important to analyze the information found. Determine what is and is not relevant, and how it factors into your argument.

By conducting thorough research, you will be able to support your argument with a well-evidenced and structured essay. Remember to keep track of all sources and citations as they will be necessary in the writing process.

3. Developing Strong Thesis Statement

Developing a strong thesis statement is essential when writing a law essay. This powerful statement sets the tone for the entire article and guides the reader’s understanding of your argument. To create an effective thesis statement, you must first fully understand the topic and question at hand. Take your time to research and gather relevant information to support your viewpoint. As you delve deeper into the subject, analyze different perspectives and identify the key arguments surrounding the topic. Once you have a clear understanding of the various viewpoints, narrow down your focus and craft a concise and persuasive thesis statement that clearly states your position. Remember, a strong thesis statement should be debatable, specific, and assertive. Spend time honing your thesis to ensure it effectively conveys your argument and engages the reader’s interest.

Example thesis statement:

“The death penalty should be abolished in the United States because it violates the Eighth Amendment, fails to act as an effective deterrent, and disproportionately affects marginalized communities.”

4. Structuring the Law Essay

Structuring your law essay is crucial to ensure clarity, coherence, and a logical flow of ideas. Here’s a breakdown of how to structure your law essay:

Introduction:

• Provide a brief overview of the topic and its significance.
• Present the thesis statement, clearly stating your argument.

Background and Context:

• Provide necessary background information to help the reader understand the topic.
• Explain relevant legal concepts, principles, or statutes related to your argument.
• Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that relates to your thesis statement.
• Present your arguments and support them with evidence, case law, or legal authorities.
• Use clear and concise language to explain your points and provide analysis.

Counter-Argument:

• Acknowledge and present the counter-argument(s) objectively and logically.
• Refute the counter-argument(s) with reasoned explanations and supportive evidence.

Conclusion:

• Summarize your main arguments and their supporting evidence.
• Restate your thesis statement and highlight its significance.
• Offer some final thoughts or suggestions for further research or action.

Remember to use appropriate headings and subheadings to structure your essay effectively. Use transition words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs. Additionally, ensure proper citations and referencing throughout the essay to maintain academic integrity.

5. Writing the Introduction

Writing the introduction is your opportunity to grab the reader’s attention and set the tone for your entire law essay. Here’s how you can effectively structure your introduction:

Start with a hook:

• Use a compelling statement, anecdote, or a relevant quote to engage the reader and create interest in your topic.

Provide background information:

• Give a brief overview of the legal issue or topic you will be discussing.
• Explain the significance and relevance of the topic to the field of law or society at large.

State the purpose and scope of your essay:

• Clearly state your thesis statement, which should encapsulate your main argument.
• Mention the key points you will address and the legal principles, cases, or statutes you will analyze.

Outline the essay structure:

• Provide a brief outline of how your essay will be structured.
• Mention the main sections or arguments you will present.

Establish the context:

• Explain any necessary legal concepts, terms, or background information that the reader needs to understand.

Remember to keep your introduction concise and focused. It should provide enough information to orient the reader and generate interest in your essay. However, save the detailed arguments and evidence for the main body of your essay. Aim to make your introduction clear, engaging, and persuasive, setting the stage for the rest of your law essay.

6. Developing the Body Paragraphs

Developing the body paragraphs is the core of your law essay, where you present and support your arguments with evidence and analysis. Here’s how to effectively structure and develop your body paragraphs:

Start with a topic sentence:

• Each body paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence that relates to your thesis statement.
• The topic sentence sets the tone and direction for the paragraph.

Present your argument:

• Clearly state your argument or point of view in the opening sentences of each paragraph.
• Provide supporting evidence, such as case law, statutory provisions, or legal principles, to back up your argument.

Analyze and interpret the evidence:

• Explain the significance of the evidence in relation to your argument.
• Analyze how the evidence supports and strengthens your position.

Use legal authorities and sources:

• Cite relevant cases, statutes, or legal commentary to support your arguments.
• Refer to authoritative legal sources, such as court decisions or academic articles, to provide credibility.

Use clear and concise language:

• Clearly articulate your ideas using logical transitions and precise language.
• Avoid unnecessary jargon or overly complex language that may confuse the reader.

Remember to properly structure your paragraphs, provide sufficient evidence and analysis, and link your arguments back to your main thesis statement. Each paragraph should contribute to the overall coherence and flow of your essay, ensuring a convincing and well-supported argument.

7. Present the Counter-argument

Presenting the counter-argument is an essential component of writing a persuasive law essay. Failing to acknowledge opposing viewpoints weakens your argument and makes it appear biased. Therefore, it is crucial to identify different perspectives surrounding the topic and analyze these perspectives objectively. Once you have identified the counter-argument, you can present it in your essay, offering evidence and explanations to support it. Addressing counter-arguments in your essay strengthens your credibility as a writer and demonstrates your ability to look at a topic from multiple perspectives. Additionally, this approach makes your essay more convincing by acknowledging and addressing potential criticism of your argument. Keep in mind that effectively presenting the counter-argument requires thorough research, logical reasoning, and evidence-based arguments. Therefore, take your time to critically analyze opposing views to ensure your argument is backed up by relevant and reliable supporting evidence. By doing so, you can construct a well-reasoned and thoughtful essay that can withstand any counter-argument.

8. Crafting the Conclusion

Crafting a strong conclusion is essential to leave a lasting impression on the reader and effectively summarize your arguments in a law essay. Here are some key steps to consider when writing your conclusion:

Summarize your main points:

• Recapitulate the main arguments you presented in the body paragraphs.
• Provide a brief overview of the evidence you presented to support each argument.

Reinforce your thesis statement:

• Restate your thesis statement in a concise manner to remind the reader of your main argument.
• Emphasize the significance and relevance of your thesis in the context of the larger legal issue.

Offer a broader perspective:

• Connect your arguments to the wider legal or societal implications of the topic.
• Discuss the potential consequences or impact of your findings on the field of law or legal practice.

Suggest areas for further research:

• Highlight any unanswered questions or areas of debate that may require future exploration.
• Propose avenues for future research or policy development related to your topic.

Conclude with a compelling closing statement:

• Leave the reader with a thought-provoking final remark that leaves a lasting impression.
• Use a concise and powerful statement to tie together your essay and reinforce your main message.

Ensure that your conclusion is concise, focused, and aligned with your overall argument. It should serve as a strong ending to your law essay, leaving the reader with a clear understanding of your position and the importance of the topic discussed.

Use Legal Terms Accurately

In the realm of writing law essays, the accurate and precise use of legal terms is paramount. This subheading focuses on the importance of correctly employing legal terminology in order to craft an exceptional law essay.

Mastering legal terminology is essential for two reasons. Firstly, it demonstrates an understanding and grasp of the subject matter, showcasing your expertise to both professors and potential employers. Secondly, using legal terms accurately enhances the clarity and coherence of your arguments, making your essay more persuasive and compelling. However, it is crucial to strike a balance – overusing legal jargon may alienate readers who are not well-versed in the law.

To ensure accuracy, it is imperative to consult reliable legal sources such as authoritative textbooks, journals, or statutes. Moreover, reading and analyzing sample essays or exemplary legal writing can provide guidance on how to effectively incorporate legal terms into your own work. By diligently honing your legal language skills, you will significantly elevate the quality and impact of your law essays.

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Lsat writing sample - a step-by-step guide + example.

Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 3/18/24

The writing section is an often overlooked part of the Law School Admission Test. Read on to learn how to approach the LSAT Writing Sample.

Part of becoming an excellent lawyer is having strong persuasive oral and written communication skills. Law schools require students to complete a writing sample as part of the challenging LSAT exam to assess potential law students on this skill.

If writing under pressure isn’t your forte, this guide will go over what you can expect on the writing sample, how to complete it efficiently, and give you a sample LSAT prompt to help you prepare!

LSAT Writing Sample Prompt

Just like sample LSAT questions can help you study, looking at essay examples can help you prepare. Here’s a past LSAT writing sample prompt you can use to begin honing your writing skills! 

​​Brighter Construction is deciding which of two upcoming construction projects to bid on—resurfacing Hilltop Road or expanding Carlene Boulevard. 

Since Brighter cannot fulfill both contracts at the same time and bids constitute binding commitments, Brighter can only bid on one of the projects. Using the facts below, write an essay arguing for one project over the other based on the following two criteria:

- Brighter wants to enhance its reputation among potential clients

- Brighter wants to increase its capacity to take on bigger projects

The Hilltop Road resurfacing is a small project. The potential profit is relatively low. With Brighter’s experience and resources, it is almost certain to win the contract, and it is highly likely to finish on time and within budget. Brighter has an established reputation for finishing projects on time and within budget.  

Brighter has specialized in small projects. Construction firms specializing in small projects find it increasingly difficult over time to win contracts for bigger projects. If the project is completed under budget, Brighter will keep the extra money. 

If it is over budget, Brighter must cover the additional costs. Brighter will use any extra money to purchase additional heavy equipment. 

The Carlene Boulevard expansion is a large project. The potential profit is much higher. It involves a kind of work that Brighter has never done before and that would require it to explain its operation. Because of the overall nature of this project, Brighter believes it has a good chance of winning the contract.

It is uncertain whether Brighter can finish the project on time and within budget. Even if brighter exceeds time and budget constraints, it will gain valuable experience. If the project goes over budget, Brighter will lose money. 

As you can see, this prompt offers two courses of action and asks you to choose whichever matches the stated criteria best. After carefully reading the prompt and following the above tips, you should be able to formulate a solid argument!

Model Answer Example

Here is a great LSAT writing example for the above prompt: 

“Based on the two criteria given, it is advisable for Brighter Construction to bid on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project.

Firstly, to enhance Brighter Construction's reputation, winning and completing the Carlene Boulevard project would have greater benefits than the Hilltop Road resurfacing project. While it is true that Brighter Construction has established a reputation for finishing projects on time and within budgets, this reputation is limited to small projects. 

As the prompt suggests, specializing in small projects can make it harder for companies to win contracts for bigger projects over time. Brighter Construction can demonstrate its ability to handle larger, more complex projects by taking on the challenge of an expandable project like Carlene Boulevard. Clients looking for construction firms to manage big projects will take notice of this. Furthermore, as the prompt indicates, the Carlene Boulevard expansion has the potential for higher profits. 

Winning this project will open up doors for Brighter Construction, which can lead to more high-profit projects in the future. It will be an excellent chance for Brighter Construction to expand its operation and be better positioned to take on even more significant projects. Therefore, even if Brighter Construction does not profit from the Carlene Boulevard expansion project, it can prepare itself to handle bigger projects better than before and take up more significant opportunities in the future.

The Carlene Boulevard expansion project presents a more significant opportunity on the second criterion of increasing capacity to take on bigger projects. As mentioned above, this project is much bigger and requires new and more advanced resources. Hence, Brighter Construction will acquire the necessary resources to handle bigger projects after winning this project. This experience will allow Brighter Construction to take on more large-scale projects. The company will have successfully expanded its operations, and thus, it can bid on more significant projects in the future. The more significant the projects Brighter Construction takes on, the higher the profits that come with them.

Moreover, the Carlene Boulevard expansion project will provide valuable experience to Brighter Construction. The fact that it is unsure if it will complete the project on time and within budget means that the company will learn new skills, gain new insights, and discover new strategies. Brighter Construction will learn to optimize its resources better if it exceeds budget constraints. The company will undoubtedly face challenges and obstacles throughout the project, and this experience will be priceless. It will enable Brighter Construction to improve its work quality and overall competence and help win more significant projects in the future.

In conclusion, while the Hilltop Road resurfacing project seems safer, Brighter Construction should bid on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project to enhance its reputation among potential clients and increase its capacity to take on more significant projects. This project will provide Brighter Construction with valuable experience, allow it to acquire new resources, and allow the company to prove its ability to handle more substantial projects successfully. Winning this project will be an excellent chance for Brighter Construction to expand its operations, prepare to take on even more significant opportunities in the future, and increase its profitability accordingly.”

Why This Answer Is Good

What makes this essay good is that it gets straight to the point. It strongly argues for one side and provides relevant examples to support that argument. 

The essay advocates for Brighter Construction to prioritize bidding on the Carlene Boulevard expansion project over the Hilltop Road resurfacing project based on enhancing reputation and increasing capacity for larger projects. 

It successfully argues that winning the Carlene project would demonstrate the company's ability to handle more significant endeavors and open doors to higher-profit opportunities. 

How is the LSAT Writing Test Scored? 

The LSAT writing sample is not scored and does not affect your overall LSAT writing score. However, it is still considered an integral part of the admissions process as it provides a window into your aptitude for a career as a lawyer. 

Similar to the experimental section, the writing sample is reviewed by admissions committees alongside your LSAT score and other application materials to evaluate your ability to construct a well-organized, logically coherent argument. 

Each law school evaluates the writing sample differently, but missing or weak responses have been used as grounds for rejection by law schools.

How to Approach the LSAT Writing Sample

Planning and writing an entire essay within 35 minutes might seem intimidating. To make this process less daunting, here are our top steps to approach the writing sample. 

By going through each of these steps, you can not only help you master the writing section, but you’ll also free up space to focus on the rest of your LSAT prep . It’s a smart way to balance your study time.

Read the Prompt Carefully

Before you begin writing your essay, you must consider all the facts. You should be able to make your decision based solely on the information you have given. Read the prompt carefully to determine which side you can create the best argument for. 

Focus on the Facts

Even if you’re well-versed in the topic presented, you should only use the information given to you to make an argument. Do not include outside information that you believe will strengthen your argument.

Admissions committees want to see how you create arguments with limited information to test your analysis and reasoning skills. 

Remember, There Is No Right or Wrong Answer

There is no right or wrong answer to these prompts. They are presented in a way that will make it somewhat challenging to choose the option with the most supporting evidence, but either side can be argued.

Choose whichever side you feel you can create the most persuasive argument for, even if it goes against what you would traditionally side with.

If you’re having difficulty choosing a side, try to jot down a few pros and cons for each and see which side has the most pros. 

Make a Plan

To avoid wasting time, getting writer’s block, or writing an incohesive essay, you should give yourself around 10 minutes to plan your essay. Create a quick outline detailing what each paragraph of your essay will argue.

Many LSAT test-takers write their sample in a series of short or only two paragraphs—one detailing the advantages of their chosen side and another detailing the disadvantages of the opposing side. You should choose a structure you feel most comfortable with.

Your first paragraph should state your stance. In your remaining paragraphs, you should mention the strengths of your choice and the cons of the opposite side. 

Your writing sample will also list certain criteria when choosing a side. Ensure you include these in your outline. 

Conclude your essay briefly by reiterating your stance and summarizing the main reasons you chose one side over the other. Your essay plan should be completed using jot notes to avoid wasting the time you’ll need to write and revise your sample.

Keep Your Writing Clear and Concise

The best way to get your point across clearly is to use simple language that is easy to understand. Do not try to impress the committee by using vocabulary you aren’t familiar with. You should also only use words that you are sure you can spell correctly. 

Leave Time to Edit

While 35 minutes may not seem like a lot of time, once you’ve created a rough plan for your essay, it won’t take too long to write it out. Remember, this essay should only be a few short paragraphs! 

You will make at least a few silly errors as you race against the clock to finish your essay and hit the LSAT writing deadline. Since this sample is meant to give the admissions committee insight into your writing skills, you must revise your writing to eliminate any avoidable spelling, grammar, or syntax errors. 

Give yourself around five minutes to review your sample to find these mistakes before submitting it. 

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Approach LSAT Writing Essay

If you have no idea where to start for your LSAT writing sample, don’t fret. We’ve compiled a step-by-step guide to help you break down the writing process. 

Taking time to practice your LSAT writing essay is a great way to self-study for the LSAT . You may also want to look at an LSAT writing example to get your ideas flowing as you practice your writing. 

But the best way to improve your writing is simply to write! So, please look at our guide below to help you learn how to approach the LSAT writing sample. 

Step One: Compare and Contrast

To build a strong argument, you need to understand both sides thoroughly. Before writing, create a list to compare and contrast the opposing arguments. This way, you can weigh the choices before you decide which side you’re on. 

There are several ways to do this. You may create a side-by-side chart, a pro-and-con list, a Venn diagram, or a thought map—the possibilities are endless! Use whatever works best for you to organize your thoughts effectively. 

Step Two: Prioritize

Now, it’s time to examine each argument carefully. Pay attention to its strengths and weaknesses and the criteria and factors provided. 

When prioritizing, consider what is most important in the situation. Which potential consequence would be a greater loss? This should help clarify which argument is stronger. 

Step Three: Make a Decision

Considering all of the above, choose a side to argue for. Be confident and prepared to defend your choice in your essay fully. Use the brainstorming you’ve done in steps one and two to create an outline for your writing sample. 

Step Four: Get Writing

Now that your argument has been built, it’s time to start writing! Remember to keep it concise--every sentence should be purposeful and necessary. Avoid fluff and filler words. 

Defend Your Choice

Start by explaining why your choice is the best one. List the factors that you prioritized and your reasons for doing so. You should have at least three strong reasons for your argument. 

Since there is no “right” answer, your argument may have weak points, which you should address. Explain why these weak points aren't significant or how the strengths in your argument compensate for them. 

Explain How the Opposition Falls Short

You don’t have to bash the other side. It’s a good idea to mention the opposition's strengths, as it shows you’ve made your decision carefully. But you should point out the “fatal flaw” of the other choice that led you to reject it. Be thorough and explain your thinking in detail. 

Step Five: Revise

Thoughtless errors never put you in a good light with admissions committees. As we mentioned before, leave yourself some time to proofread your writing sample and edit out any mistakes! 

Common Mistakes in LSAT Writing Section

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when completing the LSAT Writing section.

Misinterpreting the Prompt

Misinterpreting the LSAT essay prompt is a common mistake that significantly undermines the essay's effectiveness. This error occurs when test-takers fail to fully grasp the nuances of the prompt, leading to essays that address the wrong issue. 

Rapid reading without carefully considering the specific question can result in a lack of understanding between the essay's content and the intended evaluative criteria. This weakens the essay's persuasiveness and coherence. 

To avoid this, test-takers should invest time in comprehending the prompt, identifying key issues, and ensuring their responses specifically address the outlined instructions.

Lack of Evidence

Not using evidence to support your argument in an LSAT essay weakens the persuasive power of arguments. This mistake often results from inadequate preparation or time constraints, leading to hastily chosen examples. 

To address this, test-takers should prioritize relevant, specific, and well-developed evidence to ensure the credibility of their claims and avoid potential counterarguments that could weaken the overall persuasiveness of the essay.

Provide a Clear Conclusion

A lack of a proper conclusion in an LSAT essay diminishes its impact by depriving the reader of a clear takeaway. This oversight, often due to time constraints, results in an abrupt ending that leaves the essay incomplete. 

A well-crafted conclusion, summarizing key points and offering a compelling final thought, is crucial for reinforcing the main ideas and enhancing the overall coherence and impact of the essay.

Are you wondering if you’re ready to take the LSAT? Take this “ Am I Ready For the LSAT? Quiz ” to determine if you can take this difficult exam! 

FAQs: LSAT Writing 

Here are some commonly asked questions about this section of the LSAT, to help you understand what to expect and how to prepare.

1. How Long Should My Writing Sample on the LSAT Be?

While your writing sample has no word limit, you should aim to be as clear and concise as possible. Most writing samples on the LSAT are between two and four paragraphs long. Ensure you prioritize quality over quantity.

2. How to Prepare for the Writing Sample on the LSAT?

The best way to prepare for the writing sample is to review sample prompts and answer them under the same time constraints you’ll be in on test day.

3. Do Law Schools Read the Writing Sample on the LSAT?

Yes, law schools do read the writing samples to assess candidates’ writing and argumentative skills.

4. How Long Is the Writing Sample on the LSAT? 

You will have 35 minutes to complete the writing sample on the LSAT. 

5. Do You Have to Take The LSAT Writing More Than Once?

No, you do not have to take LSAT writing more than once. You are only required to submit one writing sample for your LSAT to be considered complete.

Final Thoughts

Given the stress you’ll be under trying to master all three sections of the LSAT, knowing you’ll also have to write an essay can make acing the LSAT seem impossible! 

Knowing how to approach the LSAT to write the most effective argument should ease some of this stress and help ensure you write a compelling sample to impress the judges!

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Writing samples.

Be prepared to submit a writing sample, but only when requested by the employer.

• A writing sample should demonstrate your ability to analyze a legal issue and write clearly, succinctly and concisely.
• the memo or brief from your first-year Legal Research & Writing class
• an excerpt from your law review or journal note
• an excerpt from a research paper written for a law school class
• a research memo or brief written for a previous legal employer
• the memo submitted for the law review/journal write-on competition
• If you use a document prepared for a previous employer, you must obtain permission from your employer before using such a sample, and be careful not to breach any confidences or attorney-client privileges.  You may redact names and other identifying information from the document, but consider whether you need to explain the reason for the redaction in the cover page.
• A writing sample must be your own work.  You should feel free to edit and improve the document before using it as a writing sample, but only if the edits and improvements are solely your work.
• Adhere to any page limit requirements set by the employer.
• If no page limit is specified, as a general rule a 5-10 page document is ideal.  You may use an excerpt from a longer document.  If you do, be certain to explain on the cover page (1) the context of the larger document, and (2) any facts necessary for a full understanding of the excerpted portions.
• If you omit internal sections of a document in order to shorten it, make this clear to the reader so they do not assume that your original document failed to address an important element of the analysis.  For example, if you are using a memo or brief that has separate sections, you could omit the text of the section but leave its title.
• Always attach a cover page to your writing sample.  Use this page to explain (1) when and why you wrote the document, if not clear from the document itself, and (2) the context of the larger document, if you are submitting an excerpt.
• Sample Cover Page for Memorandum
• Sample Cover Page for Brief
• Sample Cover Page for Legal Journal Note
• Sample Cover Page for Martin-Carnes Competition

Proofreading

• You should submit a writing sample that is free from errors in spelling, grammar, punctuation, spacing and formatting. 
• Print the document for proofreading.  You will catch more errors if you review it on paper, as opposed to on the computer screen.

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Home Essay Samples

Essay Samples on Law

Law essay writing relates to one of the most complex academic tasks because there are numerous case studies, court hearing analysis assignments, and comparisons of both local and international laws. As most students majoring in Law will agree, it’s much better when you can approach free law essay examples because it helps to understand things in a much clearer way. We have a great collection of various legal assignments for you that focus on modern and historical topics. Students that are not majoring in Law will also find these helpful as law essay topics presented address various social issues. It helps to explain the importance of Law essays for students majoring in Business Management, Healthcare, Psychology, and Marketing. As you browse through the list, you shall encounter American, British, European, and International law essay ideas that you will find inspiring. See the list of sources that have been used (at the end of each sample provided) as these may be helpful as you compose your Law essay. As you look through the samples on offer, do not forget to focus on how each paper has been structured and how the laws have been cited to provide a piece of evidence.

Surveillance in George Orwell's "1984": The Perils of Totalitarian Control

George Orwell's novel "1984" serves as a chilling depiction of a dystopian society where surveillance is used as a tool of control and manipulation. The novel explores the devastating consequences of a government that employs surveillance to monitor and regulate every aspect of its citizens'...

• Surveillance

The Rich vs. Poor Justice System: Navigating Disparities in Access

The stark contrast between the rich and poor justice system raises critical questions about equity, fairness, and the extent to which the legal system serves individuals from different socioeconomic backgrounds. The administration of justice is expected to be blind to wealth and social status, providing...

• Criminal Justice

Racism in the Justice System: Unveiling Disparities

The presence of racism in the justice system is a deeply concerning issue that raises questions about fairness, equality, and the principles upon which modern societies are built. The justice system is intended to uphold the rule of law and ensure justice for all, regardless...

• American Criminal Justice System

Is the Canadian Justice System Fair? An Examination of Equity

The question of whether the Canadian justice system is fair is a topic of ongoing debate and scrutiny. As a cornerstone of a democratic society, the justice system is expected to uphold principles of equality, due process, and justice for all. This essay delves into...

The Importance of the Criminal Justice System

The importance of the criminal justice system cannot be overstated in a functioning society. It serves as the cornerstone of maintaining law and order, upholding justice, and safeguarding the rights of individuals. This system comprises a network of agencies, institutions, and processes that work together...

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The Criminal Justice System in the UK: A Comprehensive Overview

The criminal justice system in the UK is a complex and multifaceted framework that plays a crucial role in maintaining law and order, upholding justice, and ensuring the protection of citizens' rights. This system encompasses various agencies, institutions, and processes that work collaboratively to address...

• United Kingdom

Why Did You Choose Law as a Career

The decision to pursue a career in law is one that often carries profound motivations and aspirations. In this essay, I share my personal journey and delve into the factors that led me to choose law as a career path. By exploring the intricacies of...

The Three Major Components of the Criminal Justice System

The three major components of the criminal justice system play a vital role in maintaining law and order, upholding justice, and ensuring the protection of citizens' rights. This system is a cornerstone of modern societies, designed to address and mitigate criminal activities through a structured...

The 2nd Amendment and Its Interpretation: An Argumentative Analysis

The 2nd Amendment argumentative topic remains a subject of intense debate in the United States, with differing viewpoints on the interpretation and implications of this constitutional provision. The 2nd Amendment, part of the Bill of Rights, states: "A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the...

• Second Amendment

The 15th Amendment: Extending Voting Rights and the Quest for Equality

The 15th Amendment to the United States Constitution, ratified on February 3, 1870, stands as a significant milestone in the country's history. This amendment granted African American men the right to vote, marking a critical step towards expanding suffrage and addressing the injustices of the...

• American Constitution

Why Is the Second Amendment Important: Examining the Right to Bear Arms

The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution, often a topic of intense debate, holds a pivotal place in American history and culture. Enshrined within the Bill of Rights, this amendment protects the right of citizens to bear arms. This essay delves into the reasons...

• Gun Control

Why I Want to Become a Lawyer: Advocating for Justice

Becoming a lawyer is a journey that resonates deeply with my passion for upholding justice, defending the rights of individuals, and navigating the complex web of legal intricacies. The prospect of making a difference in people's lives, advocating for those who need a voice, and...

• Career Goals

Lowering the Drinking Age to 18: Examining the Pros and Cons

The debate over lowering the drinking age to 18 is a contentious issue that raises questions about maturity, responsibility, and public health. This essay delves into the arguments for and against reducing the legal drinking age and analyzes the potential implications of such a change....

• Legal Drinking Age

Is the Criminal Justice System Broken: Analyzing Challenges

The question of whether the criminal justice system is broken has become a topic of intense scrutiny and debate in recent years. As instances of wrongful convictions, racial disparities, and inadequate rehabilitation efforts come to light, many individuals and experts argue that the system is...

Inequality in the Criminal Justice System: the Issue of Fairness

The criminal justice system plays a critical role in maintaining social order and upholding the rule of law. However, despite its important function, the system is marred by significant inequalities that disproportionately impact marginalized communities. In this essay, we will delve into the causes and...

• Social Inequality

Exploring the Concerns: Reasons Why Marijuana's Should Not Be Legal

The debate surrounding the legalization of marijuana has garnered significant attention in recent years. While proponents argue for its medical benefits and potential economic gains, there are legitimate concerns that warrant a closer examination. This essay delves into several key reasons why marijuana's should not...

• Marijuana Legalization

Deciphering Legal Realms: Exploring the Difference Between Civil and Criminal Law

Legal systems around the world are structured into distinct categories to address a wide array of conflicts and violations. Two primary branches of law, civil and criminal, serve unique purposes and operate under different principles. This essay delves into the fundamental difference between civil and...

• Criminal Law

Causes and Effects of Cyber Crime: Unraveling the Digital Threat Landscape

Cyber crime, a rapidly growing menace in the digital age, has profound effects on individuals, organizations, and society as a whole. This essay delves into the complex causes and effects of cyber crime to examine its far-reaching consequences on privacy, economy, and security. By understanding...

• Cyber Crime
• Cyber Crimes

The Importance of Freedom of Speech: Upholding Democracy and Fostering Progress

Why freedom of speech is important? In a world where ideas shape societies and opinions guide actions, the concept of freedom of speech holds immense significance. It serves as a cornerstone of democratic societies, fostering open discourse, promoting diverse viewpoints, and ultimately contributing to societal...

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Should Roe v. Wade Be Overturned: Exploring the Abortion Debate

Should Roe v. Wade be overturned? The legal and moral complexities surrounding the Roe v. Wade decision have ignited a fervent debate that continues to shape the sociopolitical landscape. This essay delves into the heart of this contentious issue, exploring the arguments on both sides...

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Freedom of Speech: Balancing Liberties and Responsibilities

Freedom of speech is a fundamental pillar of democratic societies, ensuring that individuals have the right to express their thoughts, opinions, and beliefs without fear of censorship or persecution. However, as with any right, there is the potential for abuse. This essay explores the delicate...

Cyber Crime: Navigating the Digital Underworld

Welcome to the realm of technology and its dark counterpart – cyber crime. In our interconnected world, where the digital landscape continues to expand, the prevalence and sophistication of cyber crimes have become a pressing concern. This essay delves into the intricate web of cyber...

Exploring Anti-Death Penalty Sentiments: Reevaluating Capital Punishment

The death penalty, a contentious practice in many legal systems, has spurred ongoing debates about its morality, efficacy, and ethical implications. This essay delves into the heart of anti-death penalty sentiments, elucidating the reasons behind the opposition, examining the ethical concerns against the death penalty,...

• Capital Punishment
• Death Penalty

Pioneering Justice: Legacy of First African American Supreme Court

The appointment of the first African American Supreme Court Justice marked a historic milestone in the journey towards equality and justice within the United States. This essay delves into the life and accomplishments of the first African American to serve on the highest judicial body...

• African American

Death Penalty Summary: An Overview of Capital Punishment

Introduction In societies across the world, the death penalty remains one of the most polarizing issues, sparking intense debates around morality, justice, and human rights. This death penalty summary essay aims to provide an objective and comprehensive overview of capital punishment, exploring its history, the...

Death Penalty Discussion: Examination of Capital Punishment

Introduction The debate surrounding the death penalty is as ancient as the practice itself. This death penalty discussion essay will dive deep into the heart of the matter, unpacking the historical, moral, and legal nuances of capital punishment. It will draw upon diverse arguments and...

Freedom Is the Song of the Soul: A Symphony of Self-Expression

Introduction The concept of freedom is central to the human experience, and its relationship with the soul has been a frequent topic of discussion in various cultural, philosophical, and spiritual contexts. In this essay, we will explore the metaphorical notion that 'freedom is the song...

Is the Death Penalty Ethical: Examining Capital Punishment Morality

Introduction The implementation of the death penalty, or capital punishment, sparks a moral dilemma that has persisted through centuries. In a world where the preservation of human life is a foundational principle in most societies, the ethical implications of the state executing individuals as punishment...

Controversy and Consequences of Leslie Van Houten's Release from Prison

Leslie Van Houten was recently released from prison after serving over 50 years for her involvement in the notorious Manson Family murders in 1969. Van Houten was only 19 years old when she participated in the brutal stabbing deaths of Leno and Rosemary LaBianca in...

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An In-Depth Analysis of the Supreme Court Web Designer Case

Exploring the Background of the Supreme Court Case Back in 2016, Lorie Smith, a visionary web designer hailing from Colorado, aspired to broaden her entrepreneurial horizons by delving into the realm of crafting wedding websites. Nevertheless, owing to her devout Christian convictions, Smith fervently opposed...

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Structure of Judicial System in Malaysia and Its Challenges

The Malaysian judiciary, like the judiciaries of other countries, has been thrust into the middle of a constitutional tempest. A judicial power or authority, as well as a court system, can be defined as the judiciary. In addition, the judiciary is an independent arm of...

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The Ketan Parekh Fraud and Supervisory Lapses: Case Study

The Ketan Parekh scam was the second most important scam that shook the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) after the Harshad Mehta scam. Ketan Parekh was himself a mentee of Harshad Mehta and had learned stock trading from the pied piper of Bombay Stock Exchange himself....

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Daniela's Law Case Study: Employee or an Independent Contractor

The issue based on the facts is to determine whether Daniela whom has been working with Fragrant is considered to be an employee or an independent contractor. The illustration of whether she was treated as an employee or an independent contractor is raised through a...

Crime Scene Investigators and the Judiciary: Comparative Analysis

The criminal justice system is comprised of many institutions that work in turn when a crime has been committed. Crime scene investigators and the police can be categorised as pre-charge, the crown prosecution service can be categorised as both pre and post charge and the...

Legal Case Analysis: Safford Middle School District

The Assistant Principal of a Safford Middle School District school called 13-year-old Savana Redding from her classroom and walked her to his office. Savana was removed from her Math class due to what was considered by the Assistant Principal as disturbing information regarding Savana and...

Russia-Ukrainian War: the Conflict That Has Killed International Law

On 2022 February 24, the Russian leader Vladimir Putin decided to invade Ukraine and began to try and take the country by force. Putin had sent troops to the ex-Soviet nation across three fronts and launched missiles on many places around the capital, Kyiv, in...

• Contemporary History
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The Business of News: Media Ownership and Journalism

Media ownership plays a significant role in shaping the news and information that is presented to the public. In recent years, there has been a growing concern over the concentration of media ownership and its impact on journalism. This essay will explore the relationship between...

Indian Judiciary System: Public Law and Policies for Development

India is one of the richest country in culture, diversity, heritage, religion, language and known for great history, ruled under many kings and empires. Even it followed many rules and regulation under many emperors. As after India got independence the constitution work started with its...

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Unveiling Medieval Justice: Courts, Punishments, and Evolution of the Law in Europe

I have been assigned the task of researching a topic from medieval Europe. The following paragraphs include law and court from the time 476 AD – 1492 (medieval) because in the class time we have had for history and I found the law and court...

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Gender Disparity in Judiciary and Its Impact on Domestic Violence

Access to justice is intrinsically linked to the guarantee of equality between individuals. Although equal access to justice is essential, it is often flouted to the detriment of certain groups of people - including women. Indeed, long standing entrenched gender stereotypes contribute to their differential...

• Domestic Violence
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Survey of Law Case: the Use of the Fourth Amendment in Public School

A teacher at a New Jersey high school witnessed the 14-year-old respondent and a friend, smoking cigarettes in the school bathroom—a violation of school policy. The teacher took the girls to the Principal’s office where they met with the Assistant Vice Principal. The respondent denied...

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Judiciary Diversity and Separation of Powers in the UK

“The law the legal profession and the courts are there to serve the whole population, not just a small section of it. They should be as reflective of that as it is possible to be” In this paper I will discuss the extent to which...

Prohibition of Smoking in Public Places and Work Areas

This argumentative essay on smoking in public places explores the topic of smoking bans and the role of public health monitoring in controlling this social problem. Public health monitoring is a regular collection of data on components of health aimed to inform the public of...

• Smoking Ban

The Issue of Social Justice in Terms of Racism at Schools

The term 'social justice' is often used in the context of issues related to race and racism. Social justice refers to the fair and equal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges in society, regardless of race or other factors. However, in many cases, systemic racism...

• Inequality in Education
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Revealing the Meaning of Equity, Social Justice and Human Rights

Social justice and equity are connected and installed within educational policies, legislations and explored in various articles and literature. It is impossible to address justice without including social equity. In similar way, it is not possible to talk about social equity without the mention of...

• Types of Human Rights

Uncovering Whether Should Smoking Be Illegal in the Modern Society

Many people say that smoking should not be illegal. Maybe for the reasons that it’s a personal freedom versus public health issue or since smoking is very addictive and people become dependent on it. But if what only comes out of smoking is pleasure, shouldn’t...

Reasons Why I Believe That Smoking Should Be Banned

Have you ever seen a cigarette? I'm pretty sure you have. Have you ever walked by someone and got a mouthful of smoke blew in your face? Probably. Have you ever considered starting to smoke? Well, hopefully not after reading. In this 'Smoking should be...

Race and Ethnicity's Impact on US Employment and Criminal Justice

Since the beginning of colonialism, raced based hindrances have soiled the satisfaction of the shared and common principles in society. While racial and ethnic prejudice has diminished over the past half-century, it is still prevalent in society today. In my opinion, racial and ethnic inequity...

• Race and Ethnicity

Abortion Law Around the World: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction On 11 April 2019, the Korean Constitutional Court (“KCC”) reached a decision in which it states that the relevant clause of the Korean Criminal Act (“KCA”) setting out sanctions for abortion would constitute a violation of constitutional law (The Constitutional Court Decision 2017 HunBa...

Thomas Hobbes and His Proposed Laws of Nature in Criminal Law

Starting with the first law states that we should explore peace, and if we are unable to obtain that goal, then we should use the full force of war. The first law contributes to Law of Nature that is discovered through reason. Such a law...

• Thomas Hobbes

The Death Penalty Should Be Abolished: An Unfair Treatment of Convicts

Martin Luther King once said, “Returning violence for violence multiplies violence, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars,”(King and Harding, 2010). Essentially, his philosophy was that violence is not the answer and there can always be different methods to get around it....

Death Penalty Should Be Abolished: The Inhumane Practice

As it may seem, multiple deaths have occurred with the approval of the government. Where a person (the defendant) has ignored the law and committed a crime so barbarous that the only option left is to eliminate the person and decide what form of execution...

The Death Penalty Should Be Abolished or It Deters Crime

In the news, this month is the story of Charles Russell Rhines, who could become the first man in the history of the United States to petition the South Dakota state to use a lethal injection drug of his choice. Rhines filed a petition asking...

Death Penalty Should Be Abolished: Death in the Hands of a Human

The death penalty. The supreme punishment. The act of punishing injustice by the means of injustice. First introduced as capital punishment in the eighteenth century, but used since the beginning of time, it is safe to say the death penalty holds a key role in...

The Reason Why Should the Drinking Age Stay at 21: The Drinking Age Act

The question of who should make the policy (rather than what the policy is) has been a long political debate that I am sure will not be solved within this paper. I do argue though that states given the opportunity to experiment is beneficial for...

• Drinking Age in America

Why Should the Drinking Age Stay at 21: The Issue of Underage Drinking

The blinking red hand on the crosswalk appeared and she stopped just across the street from her high school. As she exhaled her breath made little white puffs in the cold, morning air. At the same intersection, a car was quickly approaching. The walk signal...

Death Penalty: Pros and Cons of Ethics Behind Capital Punishment

Is death penalty ethical? Death Penalty is ethical because it follows Hammurabi’s code which says An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth. Death Penalty has been used for hundreds of years and over the years it has only got less extreme....

Death Penalty and Racial Prejudice: Pros and Cons of the Method

In 2019 alone, twenty two men have been brutally murdered in seven states in America (DPIC). For every person a special group had gathered to debated upon whether or not these men and women were worthy of a life or if they could be sacrificed...

Children Are Not Criminals: Lowering the Age of Responsibility

The Philippine government is proposing a new law regarding the lowering of age on criminal liability from fifteen years old to nine years old, however, children at the time of the commission of the offense shall be exempted from criminal liability because they are just...

• Age of Responsibility
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Article II of the Bill of Rights: Bearing Arms

In accordance with the article II of the Bill of Rights, “[the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed”, which is believed as that every citizen of the US has a right to keep and carry weapons. However, the...

• Bill of Rights
• Civil Rights

The Significance of Communication in the Bill of Rights and Declaration of Sentiments

Communication is the imparting or interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs. Communication has played an important role in the development of America. The impact of written communication, such as books, newspapers, and flyers from the 1500s to the 1800s on...

• British Constitution

The Need for Reformation of the Current Law and the Bill of Rights

This essay will evaluate the proposals that the Conservative Government put forward in 2015. The proposals were about repealing the Human Rights Act 1998 (HRA) and giving a Supreme domestic court the power to make decisions on human right issues. This would be done by...

Freedom as a Human Right Established in the Bill of Rights

Freedom, liberty, and strong nationalism are only a few of the unique qualities that make up our diverse country. Each of the qualities listed have many parts behind them making them the foundation of this nation. Our America is unlike any other country, our founding...

• Concept of Freedom

The Reformation of the Age of Responsibility in England and Wales

In the 19th Century with the introduction of reformatories and industrial schools in England and Wales, there have been many transformations in order to deal with young people who offend. There has been continuous political turmoil and uncertainty over the most appropriate solution to best...

The Freedom Of Religion And Why Is The First Amendment Important

First Amendment “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of...

• First Amendment

The Reasons Why Is The Second Amendment Important

The right to bear arms was inserted into the constitution and has been something that has remained in place today. With all the violence and deaths by guns that has been occurring throughout the United States in the past decade, it has caused law makers...

Why Juveniles Should Not Be Tried As Adults

Furthermore, children that commit crimes are products of their environment in which they live. For example, when children constantly get sexually abused, it causes immense amounts of trauma and a false sense of love. Often a traumatic experience for all is an offense punishable by...

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Drugs and Drug Policy In America: Relationship Between Drugs and Crime

The assortment of crimes that remain affiliated with drug use span from aggressive (such as homicide and aggravated assault) to greed (burglary, counterfeit, and deception) to distinct drug-law violations. Also, crimes such as bribery and corruption stay related to drug use as a result of...

Legalization of Marijuana: Economic and Medicinal Benefits

As a famous quote goes “Marijuana, the healing of the Nation” is not farfetched since there are several benefits of this peculiar herb. However, there are several controversies against this herb because it is believed to be an addictive drug and its use can be...

• Medical Marijuana

Pros and Cons of Legalizing Marijuana in Canada

With the legalization of marijuana, many thoughts have been heard as it is being used for medical purposes and is used to heal anxiety and autism however, it has some major health issues on the human body with some effects like memory loss and addictiveness....

Pros and Cons of Marijuana Legalization in Jamaica

After smoking marijuana for two weeks, a student at the University of Technology, Jamaica realized that it kept getting harder for him to maintain focus on one thing at a time. According to a doctor, this was a result of smoking marijuana as it may...

Why The Death Penalty Should Be Abolished

In 2018, twenty five American prisoners were sentenced to death. Is this morally wrong? Is this humane? Is this justice? These are only a few of the questions that may be posed when deliberating the death penalty. There are many shocking and unjustified arguments for...

• Human Rights
• Prison System

What Does Social Justice Mean To You

Justice can be said to be the ligament that binds together civilized beings and civilized nations. The word 'justice' can be heard on everybody's lips and can mean virtually everything. The majority of the people cry of 'Peace and Justice' that would fire and sword...

• Restorative Justice

Why Smoking Should Not Be Banned

Tobacco is one of the most lucrative industries in the world. This is because cigarettes contain chemical substances added to the tobacco in order for its users to become addicted. While many people believe tobacco alone differs from that which is included in cigarettes, tobacco...

Why Weed Should Be Legal

Marijuana could be an economical marvel and social marvel that should be praised rather than shunned by society. Police waste an unimaginable amount of money and time waging a futile war on such harmless and docile drugs that could be regulated to be safer than...

• Drugs Legalization

Why Should Weed Be Legal In the UK

Cannabis also known as Marijuana, Weed, Pot, Green, Dope and Grass is a drug which is widely used in the world and in some countries, it is legal for example Amsterdam but in others it is illegal for example the U.K. However, many people think...

Should Life Imprisonment Replace The Death Penalty

The American justice system is a complex and diverse part of American life. It has many sections and, some would say, many flaws. Nothing about this system is more controversial than capital punishment, more commonly known as the “death penalty”.The practice of executing criminals for...

Some Reflections On Civil Disobedience

In the summer of 2019, a restless mood spread among many Hong Kong residents along with the hot weather. Dissatisfied with the government's plan to introduce the Extradition Law Amendment Bill, many protesters took to the streets to protest the amendment. What no one expected,...

• Civil Disobedience

Is The Criminal Justice System Is Institutionaly Racist 

Dating back to the 1960s UK antagonizing immigrants, or even since the slave trade was abolished, institutional racism has been an existing, developing, and prevalent force within the criminal justice system. The MacPherson Inquiry (1999), which examined the original Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) investigation into...

Choice Between Civil Liberties And National Security In American History

The post-World War II and 9/11 eras were similar times in U.S. history where the United States government lived in fear. To protect national security from the communist regime, Congress passed an infamous piece of legislation in 1950, known as the McCarran Internal Security Act....

• American History
• Civil Liberties
• National Security

Mental Illness In The Criminal Justice System

The rising population of inmates with mental illness is steadily rising, 'Today, some 283,800 state and local inmates are identified as having a mental illness, representing 16% of the inmate populations”. The rising epidemic of prisoners with a mental illnesses is beginning to complicate many...

• Mental Illness

"A Tale Of Two Cities": Movie Analysis

“A Tale Of Two Cities” is a movie based on historical events that have taken place. The best way to describe this film is by saying “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times”. The movie we watched is considered to...

• A Tale of Two Cities

Moral Foundation for Liberal Egalitarian Politics

Left-libertarianism is a promising englobement of the values that define liberal egalitarian politics. In this essay I will argue that left-libertarianism does in fact provide a compelling moral foundation for liberal egalitarian politics. Furthermore, throughout the essay I will bring in discussion certain elements that...

Constitutional Conventions and Political Non-legal Rules in UK

This essay will discuss constitutional conventions and their enforceability in the UK, as well as this whether accountability for the breaches is sufficient. The essay will be sectioned into separate segments. In the UK it is normal that constitutional conventions are followed, similarly to laws....

• Militarization of Police

Moral Aspects of Insanity Defense in Lawers Work

Imagine that you are a lawyer and your client tells you that they are being formally charged for murder, but truly were unaware that it occurred due to in happening while they were asleep (sleepwalking). As a lawyer, you are paid to provide the best...

• Insanity Defense

Revolutionization of Criminal Procedure in U.S. Supreme Court Under Earl Warren

Who sits at the nerve center of society makes all the difference and A great man is the one who represents a great ganglion in the nerves of that society, or, to vary the figure, a strategic point in the campaign of history and part...

• Criminal Procedure

Beliefs and Thoughts Over the Death Penalty

There are a lot of mixed opinions surrounding the idea of the death penalty. In the 1990’s, nearly 80% of the public approved Capital Punishment, while about 5% of were undecided and the other 15% opposed it. Is it fair to those who have done...

The Concept of Contract Law and Social Occasions

The idea of the law of Contracts is that, in any understandings made by the gatherings, unexpected events may happen which makes a deterrent to achieving the explanation behind the understanding made by the social occasions. An inescapable condition in the law of agreements is...

• Contract Law
• Social Contract

Capital Punishment as an Effective Way to Prevent Crime

In the United States, as in almost every other country, there is a punishment or consequence to every crime. Capital punishment is the legally authorized killing of someone as punishment for a specific crime. In other words, capital punishment, also known as the death penalty,...

A Provision for Clemency of Capital Punishment in India

Crime is as old as human civilization. Since time immemorial crime has been with us in different degrees. Every society has a pattern of suitable conduct and some human beings in every society fallen outside this configuration. It is the reality which we can accept...

Virtue Ethics Frameworks as Drivers of Teacher’s Systems Advocacy

In early education children's interests are not at the forefront of the ecce policy; instead, policy is aligned to providing 'childcare” to encourage economic growth and the expandsiion of the workforce and this leads to increasing national productivity. Moving on now to consider the ethical...

The Development of English Contract Law

The development of English Contract Law was massively impacted by Athenian and Roman Law which is by the Twelve Tables in 450 BC. Roman law of contracts where is found in Byzantine emperor Jusatinian’s law where it is called Corpus. Juris Civil (“Body of Civil...

The Power of Revenge, a Virtuous, Ethical and Principled Man I

Sanctimonious hypocrisy, causing one to commit an even greater wrong than the one they seek vengeance for, consumes them with the desire for revenge. Caused by the desire to seek vengeance and punish someone who has caused internal or external pain to one or someone...

• Ethical Dilemma

Advocacy and Inquiry Model as A Communication Tool

Advocacy and inquiry model is a tool of communication which includes different skills; “listen to understand, suspend judgment, respect all and speak your voice.” It facilitates the conversation and task to move forward. Advocacy means to be a voice of someone which helps to provide...

• Communication
• Conversation

Form of Abuse, Bully or Revenge or Domestic Violence

The essence of the word “pornography” is obtained from the Greek language, i.e. “Porne and graphos”. The word “porne” comes from the meanings, a captive who is a female or a harlot or a prostitute. While the word “graphos” is “writing with regard to” or...

Racism In Law: Plessy Vs Ferguson

Introduction: Racism in the United States has plagued our nation since its creation and has plagued the legal world since its establishment. Despite the modern world, the US judicial system is still lacking when in the case of people of color. What does it mean...

• Plessy Vs Ferguson
• Racial Segregation
• White Privilege

Plessy V. Ferguson: Justification Of The Case

Justice is defined as the branch of human logic in charge of solving any of the dilemmas present in mankind’s social life, ranging from mere disputes to life-threatening eruptions of pure violence. On the other hand, this controversial topic of the judicial system’s fails or...

Plessy Vs. Ferguson And Other Cases That Violated Human Rights

There are monumental times in US history that have shaped our future. A future where we are looked at as equal and in more ways than one. Life has not been parallel for all Americans. Amendment XIV Section 1 “All persons born or naturalized in...

The Cruciality Of Compromise And How It Guards Against Tyranny

In the essay titled “Rescuing Compromise” by journalist Johnathon Rauch, he analyzes the political system today and the one that was created by the founding fathers not-so-long-ago. More specifically, Rauch delves into the Constitution and the idea of compromise. He claims that the Constitution was...

Experience In Court: Court Observation Report

This court observation report constitutes an area that exists within the judicial systems of states especially crucial to its citizens. That is to say, a court is where an individual goes if they violate the law. More specifically, it is an entity formed by the...

• Observation

Best topics on Law

1. Surveillance in George Orwell’s “1984”: The Perils of Totalitarian Control

2. The Rich vs. Poor Justice System: Navigating Disparities in Access

3. Racism in the Justice System: Unveiling Disparities

4. Is the Canadian Justice System Fair? An Examination of Equity

5. The Importance of the Criminal Justice System

6. The Criminal Justice System in the UK: A Comprehensive Overview

7. Why Did You Choose Law as a Career

8. The Three Major Components of the Criminal Justice System

9. The 2nd Amendment and Its Interpretation: An Argumentative Analysis

10. The 15th Amendment: Extending Voting Rights and the Quest for Equality

11. Why Is the Second Amendment Important: Examining the Right to Bear Arms

12. Why I Want to Become a Lawyer: Advocating for Justice

13. Lowering the Drinking Age to 18: Examining the Pros and Cons

14. Is the Criminal Justice System Broken: Analyzing Challenges

15. Inequality in the Criminal Justice System: the Issue of Fairness

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