How to Write a Law Research Essay: Planning and Structuring

Writing a law research essay can be a rewarding experience if approached with the right strategies. As a law graduate who received a couple of first-class grades, I can confidently state that with careful planning and ample time for execution, essay writing can be both enjoyable and fulfilling. Let’s break down this journey into six key segments designed to help you craft a compelling and well-structured essay.

I. Understanding the Purpose of Law Essays

It is important to first acknowledge that a law research essay is NOT designed to regurgitate information available elsewhere. It is expected to offer something different with reference to your individual abilities to analyse. With this in mind, the primary purpose of a law essay is to answer the question posed while showcasing your research skills.

The marker is seeking to test your research and writing skills. Let’s use the acronym RAAW to simplify this.

• Research: How thorough of an investigation did YOU do into the topic?
• Analysis: How rigorous was your discussion of the topic? Did YOU critically evaluate and interpret the information?
• Application: What legal principles and theories do YOU use to supplement your analysis?
• Writing: How well did YOU present your findings? Were they clear enough to be understood?

By focusing on these elements, you can meet the expectations of your markers and create a strong foundation for your essay. Trust me, when you nail this part, it feels like unlocking a secret level in a game!

II. Analysing the Essay Question

Before you begin writing, it is crucial to thoroughly understand the essay question. Why? This is because it contains instruction words which tell you about the subject of the essay and this in turn tells you the sort of essay that is required. This step is important because some law students may have a solid essay without actually ever answering the question, and this could be rather detrimental to their grades.

Breaking down your question, not only guides your research but also ensures you address all aspects of the question itself. To effectively do this, consider what is being asked, why it matters and how you can provide a comprehensive answer. Think of it as solving a puzzle – every piece contributes to the bigger picture.

III. Structuring the Introduction

Perhaps most, if not all introductions have three functions:

• 1. Hooking readers (in this case, markers) by setting the stage for the essay.
• 2. Providing necessary contextual information on the topic.
• 3. Providing the essay’s mission statement; a statement that identifies the purpose of the essay or previews its main ideas (so essentially a thesis/main argument).

Ensuring that your introduction performs these functions will strengthen the foundation of your essay and engage your readers/markers from the outset.

IV. Developing the Main Body

This is where you delve into rigorous analysis– you need to develop your topic and prove your points. In making it comprehensible for your readers/markers, divide the main body into sub-topics and then discuss each topic in a separate paragraph.

For example, if I am writing an essay on ‘Merger Regulations’, this is how I might considerdividing the main body:

• How Effective Are Merger Regulations?
• The UK Experience of Merger Regulations
•  Horizontal Mergers
•  Vertical Mergers

By doing this, I have split each paragraph using a logical division of ideas. This will make my argument more cohesive and comprehensible for my readers/markers.

As earlier stated, this is where you make and evaluate your arguments. However, some law students are more likely to describe when they should be analysing. To combat this, use the PEEC method:

This approach adds depth to your essay as it is backed by authority and makes it engaging and easy to follow.

V. Crafting a Strong Conclusion

Your conclusion is expected to reinforce your mission statement (in the introduction) and highlight the significance of your findings/arguments. It is NOT to introduce new information.

I understand that getting to the conclusion is akin to seeing the light at the end of the tunnel but please remember that it is just as important as the introduction. Here, you are leaving your reader/marker with your final thoughts on the topic. This is YOUR moment to leave a strong, effective message that the reader/marker will remember!

VI. Referencing

Proper referencing is essential in any academic work as it evidences academic integrity and acknowledges sources used. Referencing is not just some technical requirement but rather a fundamental aspect of scholarly communication.

By mastering it, you enhance the quality of your work and minimise the likelihood of plagiarism. That being said, please ensure you adhere to your university’s required citation style and if you encounter any difficulties with referencing, I encourage you to use your university’s resources.

FINAL THOUGHTS: IMPORTANCE OF DRAFTING

Remember, these six segments we’ve explored are just the beginning. A great law research essay is never perfected in a single draft. Take time to revisit each segment. Your first draft is exactly that, a first draft. By allowing yourself multiple iterations, you will progressively improve- practice makes progress which in turn makes perfect.

Ample time is not a luxury; it is a necessity. An exceptional law research essay emerges through patient, thoughtful redrafting across all six segments. You’ve got this!

Article written by Fareeda Bakare, a law graduate from The University of Sheffield and the 2024 Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) Prize-winner for Best Performer in Law of Public Companies.