essay writing for law students

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• Writing a Student Note
• Writing Process

The Writing Process

Typical outline of a note.

• Introduction : The Introduction should include a description of the problem, a thesis statement, and a roadmap of the argument to follow.
• Part I : This section should be used to set forth the background information on which the later analysis in your Note will depend. It should be a general and broad review of the important issues relevant to your topic that educates your readers about everything they must know in order to understand your Note. When writing this section, be sure to use language that a reader who is not familiar with your Note topic can easily understand.
• Part II : This section should examine the major cases and statutes that your Note will be analyzing. It will contain the main portion of your analysis of how the law stands. For example, if your topic focuses on a circuit split, Part II is where you would explain the conflicting holdings and rationales. You may also choose to discuss what other commentators have said about your topic and these cases.
• Part III : This section is where you will contribute your own analysis of and views on the topic. You will say why you feel the cases/commentary you analyzed are wrong and what should be done instead. In the case of a circuit split, say which side is better and why. Part III is where you should place your original thoughts and contributions, along with the conclusion of your Note.
• Conclusion : The Conclusion should briefly restate what you have already said. You should not focus too much on this section when preparing this Prospectus.

Tips on Legal Writing—Patrick Garlinger ’09

While some may have a greater facility for language than others, there is nothing natural about good writing. It comes from practice—and from rewriting.

Advice on writing is easily dispensed but difficult to follow. This is largely because writing requires enormous discipline. The following are six basic principles that provide a structure for the writing process. They are not specific to academic writing or to legal writing in particular but may be especially helpful in a law school environment where time to write is a precious commodity. Over the years these guidelines have given me the discipline to start and finish, among other academic texts, a student Note.

Writing is like a muscle: Exercise it regularly.

For most students, the Note is the first experience with publishable academic writing. In college, all-nighters might produce passable term papers, but that approach certainly won’t do here. Nor will exam writing really prepare you for legal academic writing. Instead, good academic writing requires regular practice. Law school does little to assist here, since all too often the periods for working on one’s Note are isolated and scattered due to the time constraints imposed by classes, journal work, clinics, and extra-curricular activities. You may pursue a Directed Research as a way to carve out a block of time dedicated to the note or, alternately, write your note to fulfill the writing requirement of a seminar. Winter break is also a great time to make substantial progress on a first draft. Either way, you should try to work steadily on the Note so as to avoid losing momentum and focus.

Good writing does not come naturally: Read good writers.

While some may have a greater facility for language than others, there is nothing natural about good writing. It comes from practice—and from rewriting. To practice without models of good writing is, however, pointless. You must read other legal writers carefully, for both their analysis and their style. As a starting point, find a few sources that inspire your intellectual juices and, over time, keep adding to the list. Read and analyze how those writers introduce their topic and communicate their thesis. Look carefully at the architecture of their argument, their lexicon and sentence structure. In short, read them as both legal scholars and writers. Emulate (but do not copy, of course). Additionally, you may benefit from style guides that provide specific guidelines for legal writing (e.g., Bryan Garner’s Legal Writing in Plain English ). Avoid legalese. A student note should not read like a law school exam or a brief.

Know your thesis: Say it in a single sentence.

One of the most difficult tasks facing a student writer is finding a topic and narrowing the thesis. The student Note is rather short—and because you need to provide background information for your generalist readers, there is little room for sweeping analysis. As such, you should target a very discrete issue. Yet, in my experience, articulating, not finding, the topic is the most difficult task facing a student writer.

You should be able to state your thesis in one or two sentences at most. Anything longer suggests that the topic too unwieldy for a student note or, more probably, that the writer still has not fully understood the nature of the project. Pith not protraction should be your goal. If you can state your thesis in a single sentence, that clarity and concision will guide you throughout the rest of the writing process, helping to avoid unfortunate meanderings or excess material that is not essential to the argument. Simply put, if you cannot summarize your note in one or two sentences, you don’t have a thesis.

Know your writing mode: Respect your rhythm.

Everyone has a writing mode—when you are most inclined to write and how you go about composing. Some of us are “whittlers.” We write and write and write. Later, we will edit and “whittle” away the excess. We refine our ideas in the process of writing, often repeating the same thoughts in multiple guises until we hit on just the right formulation. Others are “refiners” who write just a few sentences or a paragraph and then revise and polish it to perfection before moving on. Similarly, you may have a natural rhythm when it comes to the time of day when your writing seems to flow most easily. A friend of mine prefers to write in the mornings before she has any tea or coffee, using what I call the “carrot” method of motivation.

Respect your writing style; recognizing how you work is important to maximizing it. It may prove futile to try to write against your natural rhythm. If I try to refine as I write, or if I write in the middle of the afternoon, I find myself producing very little.

Everyone suffers from writer’s block: Switch gears or put it down and rest.

Even when you know your writing mode, writing can be a difficult process; your energy comes in fits and spurts, your love for your topic waxes and wanes. When you hit a road block, change it up. Sometimes very simple changes can give you a boost. When I find myself struggling, I switch fonts, or change the spacing from single to double. Often the effect is just to defamiliarize the text, so you see it differently. If writer’s block still persists and the words elude you, take a break. Sometimes a day or two can make a difference in how the argument reads to you—the logical leaps, grammatical errors or infelicitous word choices will leap off the page.

There is a danger, though, in always caving at the first resistance to writing. Writing is hard work. It requires endurance and persistence. Force yourself to try to write for at least 10-15 minutes. A mentor was fond of saying, “Screw your a-- to the chair and don’t get up.” Like exercise, sometimes the thought of writing is more painful than the actual practice, and once you start, you find it comes more easily than anticipated.

Never fall in love with your own writing: Edit with a vengeance.

This piece of advice is owed to a former mentor who repeated it as a mantra. Whether you are a whittler, a refiner, or somewhere in between, we often fall in love with our own prose, unable to let go of a snappy sentence or an ingenious turn of phrase. Editing is the key to good writing, however, and you cannot be afraid to leave material on the cutting room floor.

Place yourself in the reader’s position and ask yourself if the sentence/paragraph/section is really essential. Because we often think we know what our words mean, we fail to realize that our readers may not find our thoughts to be so crystalline. Defamiliarize your own writing by putting the text away or it may be helpful to print out and proofread in hard copy; words will look different on the page than on the computer screen. Finally, avoid the fetish of the footnote as the last refuge for material that should be cut. It is cliché but true that less is often more.

Additional Resources

• Writing Workshop Video : A September 2008 presentation by Vice Dean Barry Friedman, Professor Florencia Marotta-Wurgler, Patrick Garlinger, ’09, and Ilana Harmati, ’10, on student legal writing.
• Eugene Volokh, Academic Legal Writing: Law Review Articles, Student Notes, and Seminar Papers (2003)
• The Bluebook : the guide to legal citation to use in writing and editing legal scholarship.

© 2024 New York University School of Law. 40 Washington Sq. South, New York, NY 10012.   Tel. (212) 998-6100

Mastering the Craft: Writing Effective Legal Essays for Law Students

Norma Harris, LawFuel contributor

Welcome to the exciting yet challenging world of legal writing! As a law student, mastering the art of writing legal essays is not just a requirement; it’s a fundamental skill that will serve you throughout your career. This guide is designed to provide you with tips and techniques to excel in crafting compelling legal essays.

Let’s embark on this journey of turning complex legal concepts into coherent and persuasive narratives.

Understanding the Legal Essay

A legal essay is more than just an academic assignment; it’s a critical tool for demonstrating your understanding of legal theories and ability to apply them to real-world scenarios. Unlike other forms of academic writing, legal essays require specific skills, including analyzing legal problems, using legal reasoning, and accurately referencing legal authorities.

For students who find these requirements daunting, seeking assistance from a professional essay writing service can be valuable. These services provide expertise in crafting well-argued and properly referenced legal essays, which can significantly aid in understanding the nuances of legal writing and improving academic performance.

Topic Selection and Analysis

Selecting the perfect topic for your legal essay is a critical first step. It sets the tone for your entire piece and can often determine its success.

Here’s how to make the right choice:

Relevance to Current Legal Discussions: Aim for a topic that is interesting and relevant to current legal debates or recent developments in law. This demonstrates your awareness of the evolving legal landscape.

Personal Interest: Choose a topic that intrigues you. Your enthusiasm will reflect in your writing, making the process more enjoyable and engaging.

Scope and Feasibility: Be realistic about the content of your essay. It’s better to thoroughly explore a more focused topic than to skim the surface of a broader one.

Techniques for Analyzing the Essay Question

Understanding and dissecting the essay question is crucial. Here’s how to break it down:

Identify Key Terms: Look for action words like “analyze,” “discuss,” or “compare.” These verbs define the approach you should take in your essay.

Scope of the Question : Determine the boundaries of the topic. What are you being asked to focus on? This helps in narrowing down your research.

Hidden Questions: Sometimes, essay questions have underlying issues that take time to be apparent. Look for these subtleties to address the question entirely.

Conducting Preliminary Research to Scope the Topic

Start with a broad sweep of the topic:

Initial Readings: Review general texts to understand the background and context of your topic.

Identifying Gaps: Look for areas within the topic that are under-discussed or particularly contentious. These gaps often make for compelling essays.

Research Strategies

Research is the foundation of any legal essay. It informs your arguments and supports your conclusions. Effective research involves:

Comprehensiveness: Ensure you cover all relevant legal aspects of your topic.

Credibility: Use authoritative and reliable sources to back up your arguments.

Identifying and Using Primary and Secondary Legal Sources

Understanding the difference between primary and secondary sources is vital:

Primary Sources: These are the law – statutes, cases, regulations. They form the backbone of your legal arguments.

Secondary Sources: Include legal journals, textbooks, and commentaries. They provide interpretations and critiques of primary sources and help to contextualize your arguments.

Effective Use of Legal Databases and Libraries

Utilize legal databases like Westlaw, LexisNexis, and HeinOnline for access to many legal resources. Libraries, especially law school ones, are invaluable for finding primary and secondary sources.

Maintaining Accuracy and Relevancy in Research

Stay Updated: Laws and legal interpretations change. Make sure your research includes the most current information.

Relevance: Always tie your research back to the central thesis of your essay. Irrelevant information, no matter how interesting, can detract from your argument’s coherence.

Planning and Structuring the Essay

Before diving into writing, it’s essential to plan your essay. An effective outline acts as a roadmap, guiding you through your arguments in a logical sequence. Start by jotting down the main points you intend to cover. Arrange these points in a logical order, ensuring that each one builds upon the last.

Structuring Arguments Logically and Coherently

A legal essay’s strength lies in its arguments’ clarity and logic. Ideally, Each paragraph should begin with a clear topic sentence stating the idea or point you’ll discuss.

This is followed by evidence, such as legal precedents or statutes, and then analysis, where you interpret how this evidence supports your argument. Ensure each paragraph flows smoothly into the next, creating a cohesive narrative throughout your essay.

The Role of Thesis Statements and Topic Sentences

A well-crafted thesis statement at the beginning of your essay sets the tone and direction of your arguments. It should briefly state the main point or opinion that your paper will support. Similarly, topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph offer a preview of what the section will discuss, tying it back to the thesis statement. 

Balancing Depth and Breadth in Legal Analysis

While depth of analysis is crucial in demonstrating your understanding of the topic, it’s equally important to maintain a breadth of perspective. Avoid tunnel vision by considering various aspects of the legal issue at hand. However, beware of spreading your analysis too thin. 

Legal Argumentation and Analysis

Effective legal argumentation is rooted in logical clarity and supported by evidence. Your arguments should be based on legal principles and facts, not just opinions. Appropriate legal authorities, like statutes or case law, should back up each claim you make. 

Critical Thinking in Legal Analysis

Critical thinking is vital in legal analysis, much like how an ai essay writer free tool assists in generating content by evaluating various parameters. In legal studies, it’s about understanding the law and analyzing how it applies to different situations.

You need to question assumptions, much like an AI tool sifts through data, evaluate evidence critically, and explore the implications of your arguments. This depth of analysis, akin to the intricate processing of a sophisticated AI writer, demonstrates a higher level of understanding and engagement with the subject matter.

Addressing Counterarguments and Alternative Perspectives

A comprehensive legal essay anticipates and addresses potential counterarguments. Acknowledging and responding to opposing viewpoints strengthens your essay by demonstrating that you have considered the issue from all angles. It shows the ability to engage critically with different perspectives, a vital skill in legal analysis.

Incorporating Legal Precedents and Statutory Materials

Your arguments should be grounded in relevant legal precedents and statutory materials. Citing these sources provides evidence to support your points and shows your ability to interpret and apply legal concepts. Explain how these sources relate to your argument, rather than simply listing them, to demonstrate your analytical skills.

Legal Writing Style and Language

Clear and concise writing is paramount in legal essays. The goal is to communicate complex legal ideas in a way that is accessible and understandable. This means avoiding unnecessary jargon, wordy sentences, and convoluted structures.

Each sentence should convey your point directly and efficiently. Clarity is key in legal writing; you aim to make your argument as straightforward and understandable as possible.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Legal Language

Legal language is often criticized for being overly complex. Avoid these common pitfalls by simplifying your language. Avoid the passive voice, which can obscure the meaning and make your writing less engaging. Also, resist the temptation to use legal terms unnecessarily; use plain English wherever possible to convey your points more clearly.

Use of Legal Terminology and Phrases

While simplicity is essential, there are times when specific legal terminology is necessary to convey a concept accurately.

In such cases, ensure you fully understand and use the terms correctly. This demonstrates your knowledge and ensures that your argument is legally sound. However, always explain the time briefly to readers who may need to become more familiar with it.

Balancing Technicality with Readability

The ultimate goal is to strike a balance between technical accuracy and readability. Your essay should demonstrate your legal knowledge and ability to use legal language correctly, but someone without a legal background should easily understand it.

Citation and Referencing in Legal Essays

Accurate citation is crucial in legal essays. It serves two primary purposes: it credits the original authors of the work and allows readers to verify your sources. This not only bolsters your credibility but also ensures academic integrity. Please cite sources to avoid accusations of plagiarism, which can have serious consequences.

Overview of Common Citation Styles in Law

Different jurisdictions and law schools may prefer different citation styles. The Bluebook and OSCOLA are among the most commonly used.

The Bluebook, prevalent in the United States, provides a uniform citation system. OSCOLA, mainly used in the UK, is designed for legal referencing. Familiarize yourself with the preferred style for your jurisdiction or institution to ensure correct citations.

Avoiding Plagiarism and Ensuring Academic Integrity

To avoid plagiarism, ensure that every source you use is properly cited. This includes direct quotes as well as paraphrased ideas and information. Understanding and adhering to the rules of your chosen citation style is vital to maintaining academic integrity.

Editing and Proofreading

Editing is an essential step in the writing process . Begin by reviewing your essay for structure and content. Make sure each argument is coherent and supported by evidence. Then, move on to sentence-level edits, focusing on clarity and conciseness. Look out for and eliminate any grammatical errors or awkward phrasings.

Seeking Feedback and Constructive Criticism

Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from peers, mentors, or professors. Fresh eyes can catch errors you might have missed and provide valuable insights on improving your essay. Constructive criticism is a powerful tool for enhancing your legal writing skills.

From selecting a compelling topic and conducting thorough research to crafting clear, coherent arguments and ensuring accurate citations, each aspect of your legal essay is a stepping stone towards demonstrating your proficiency in law.

Remember, effective legal writing is not just about showcasing your understanding of the law; it’s about communicating complex ideas, concisely, and persuasively. As you apply these tips and techniques, you will not only enhance your legal writing skills but also deepen your understanding of the law itself.

Embrace the challenge, seek feedback, and continually refine your skills. Your journey in mastering legal essays is not just about academic success; it’s about preparing for a rewarding legal career.

About The Author

Norma Harris

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General Tips

Check further reading lists before finding your own sources..

Once you receive your essay question, before trying to identify your own primary and secondary sources, a good starting point is to have a look at your university’s further reading list for whichever topic the question is based upon and then research any of the relevant sources listed. Also, you can find sources by checking the further reading list of the relevant chapter in your main textbook. You can also ask for help from  professional research paper writers

Plan before you start writing.

Produce a plan which outlines what all of your main arguments are, how you will make the points, which sources you plan to use, and what your conclusion will be.  By having all of your notes and research in your plan in one place, this will prevent any confusion or stress trying to find something later on.

At the end of each main argument, link it back to the question.

You need to answer the question. To ensure you do this, at the end of each key point, include a sentence or two which links it back to the main question.

Make a vocabulary bank on a word document.

Making a list of words that are commonly used in essay writing and having it to hand or in a separate tab on your computer can be really useful if you get stuck whilst writing.

Use sentence starters such as ‘firstly’, ‘furthermore’, ‘therefore’, and ‘in conclusion’.

Using sentence starters will help ensure your writing is fluent and flows.

Only make direct quotations where it makes sense to.

It is not necessary to directly quote every academic commentator that you are making reference to in your essay; instead, for the most part, paraphrase.

Proofread your essay out loud before submitting.

It is very important that you not only proofread your essay before you submit it but that you do so out loud. This will help you filter out any incorrect punctuation and ensure that your writing flows.

How to Answer Each Section of an Essay

The introduction.

You should aim to do four things in your introduction:

• Set out any definitions of any key terms outlined in the essay title or statement of your essay. 
• State what the overall aim of your essay is.
• Explain how you plan to achieve this aim. 
• Provide a brief summary of what your essay will conclude.

The Main Body of the Essay

The main body of the essay refers to the two or three main arguments.  Aim to use a range of primary and secondary sources in this part.  It is crucial that critical analysis is used in this section in order to achieve a higher grade. This will mean engaging with primary and secondary sources and identifying the strengths and weaknesses of each point.  Furthermore, whilst you should acknowledge both sides of the argument, you should finish by clarifying which side you find more convincing and why.

The Conclusion

A conclusion should:

• Summarise how the essay has achieved its aim.
• Echo what the essay’s position/opinion on the essay question/title is and explain the reasoning behind this.

Do not address any new points or arguments in the conclusion; only refer to ideas that you have already discussed.  Keep the conclusion relatively brief – a few sentences should be sufficient.

Imaan Fatima

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Law Essay Topics: Medical Law, Policy & More

A law essay is a type of academic writing that requires students to analyze legal concepts, principles, and cases. Law essays can be argumentative, persuasive, or analytical, depending on the assignment's focus. Regardless of the type, every law essay must be well-structured, logically organized, and clearly presented. The arguments should be supported by thorough legal research, drawing on statutes, case law, and academic commentary to provide a solid foundation for the analysis.

This article provides a variety of topics to help you get started. No matter what area of law you're focusing on, these suggestions will give you a strong foundation for your essay. If you're still unsure about your topic or need further guidance, EssayService's law essay writing service is here to help. Our team of experienced writers can assist you in brainstorming a good law essay topic, conducting research, and crafting a well-structured essay!

How to Choose a Good Law Essay Topic?

Here are some tips to help you select a good law essay topic:

1. Consider Your Interests:

• Passion: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. This will make your research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging.
• Knowledge: Select a topic that you have some background knowledge of or are willing to learn about. This will make your research more efficient and help you understand the complexities of the issue.

2. Evaluate the Scope:

• Narrow it down: Ensure your topic is specific enough to be covered in-depth within the word count limitations of your essay. Avoid overly broad topics that would require extensive research and analysis.
• Avoid overly broad or narrow topics: A topic that is too broad may be difficult to focus on, while a topic that is too narrow may limit your ability to explore different perspectives.

3. Consider the Availability of Sources:

• Research materials: Research the availability of reliable sources on your chosen topic. Ensure there is sufficient information and scholarly literature to support your arguments.
• Primary and secondary sources: Consider using a combination of primary and secondary sources to provide a comprehensive analysis of your topic.

4. Think Critically:

• Controversial topics: Don't shy away from controversial or complex topics. These can often lead to more interesting and thought-provoking essays.
• Multiple perspectives: Consider topics that allow you to explore different perspectives and arguments. This will demonstrate your critical thinking skills and ability to evaluate evidence.

Law Essay Topics on Criminal Justice

• Is the death penalty a deterrent to crime?
• What is the impact of mass incarceration on communities of color?
• Is racial profiling a significant issue in the criminal justice system?
• What are the challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system?
• Is the bail system fair and equitable?
• What is the role of mental health in criminal justice?
• Is police reform necessary to address systemic issues?
• What are the consequences of wrongful convictions?
• Is the juvenile justice system effective in rehabilitating young offenders?
• What are the ethical considerations for law enforcement using facial recognition technology?
• Is the War on Drugs a successful strategy?
• What is the impact of gun control laws on crime rates?
• Is the criminal justice system too punitive?
• What is the role of victim's rights in the criminal justice process?
• Is the use of solitary confinement justified?

Criminal Law Essay Topics

• How has the rise of cybercrime impacted traditional law enforcement methods?
• What are the specific challenges of prosecuting environmental crimes?
• What is the role of international cooperation in addressing transnational crime?
• What are the ethical implications of using facial recognition technology in law enforcement?
• How has the legalization of marijuana in some jurisdictions impacted the criminal justice system?
• What are the specific challenges of prosecuting hate crimes?
• Discuss the potential negative consequences of bail reform, such as increased public safety risks.
• How has the pandemic affected crime rates and the criminal justice system?
• What is the role of restorative justice in addressing the consequences of crime?
• Examine the factors that contribute to sentencing disparities, including race, gender, and socioeconomic status.
• How has the rise of social media impacted the prosecution of crimes related to online harassment and threats?
• Analyze the arguments for and against capital punishment, considering factors such as deterrence, retribution, and human rights.
• Discuss potential reforms to reduce the prison population and address the root causes of crime.
• What are the specific challenges of prosecuting crimes related to intellectual property theft?

Law Essay Topics on Policy

• How does policy influence the evolution of law?
• What are the ethical implications of policy-driven legal changes?
• To what extent should policy be considered in legal interpretation?
• Does the Affordable Care Act effectively balance individual rights and public health?
• How has immigration policy shaped the development of human rights law?
• What are the unintended consequences of gun control policies?
• How do the environmental policies of the United States and the European Union differ?
• What lessons can be learned from the different approaches to healthcare policy in the United States and Canada?
• If a government were to implement a policy of mandatory euthanasia for individuals over the age of 80, would it be considered legal and ethical?
• How might a policy of universal basic income impact the legal system?
• What are the potential costs and benefits of a carbon tax?
• Does the death penalty serve as an effective deterrent to crime?
• Should the law prioritize individual liberty over public safety?
• Is it justifiable for a government to restrict free speech in the name of national security?
• How can sociological and economic theories inform the development of effective legal policy?

Law Essay Topics on Human Rights

• To what extent are human rights universal?
• How effective are international human rights organizations in protecting human rights?
• What are the ethical implications of using drones for targeted killings?
• If a country experiences a humanitarian crisis, what are the obligations of the international community to intervene?
• Should the right to freedom of expression be absolute?
• Is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights more effective than regional human rights treaties?
• Which approach to addressing gender-based violence is more effective: legal measures or social change?
• Does economic inequality contribute to human rights violations?
• What are the long-term consequences of child labor on individuals and societies?
• Has the International Criminal Court been effective in holding perpetrators of war crimes accountable?
• Is the death penalty a violation of the right to life?
• Is the right to privacy more important than the right to security?
• Should governments restrict the use of social media to prevent the spread of hate speech?
• When is the use of torture justified, if ever?
• Is it ethical to detain individuals indefinitely without trial?

Law Essay Topics on Death Penalty

• Is the death penalty a just and effective form of punishment?
• What are the ethical implications of state-sanctioned executions?
• How does the death penalty impact society as a whole?
• Does the death penalty deter crime effectively?
• Should the death penalty be reserved for the most heinous crimes?
• How can sociological and psychological theories inform our understanding of the death penalty?
• Is the death penalty applied fairly and equitably?
• What are the costs associated with the death penalty?
• How does the United States' approach to the death penalty compare to other countries?
• What lessons can be learned from countries that have abolished the death penalty?
• If a new piece of evidence were to exonerate a death row inmate, how would this impact public opinion on the death penalty?
• What would be the consequences of a moratorium on executions in the United States?
• What are the potential costs and benefits of abolishing the death penalty?
• Does the death penalty serve as a deterrent to violent crime?
• Is it morally justifiable for the state to take a human life?

Law Essay Topics on Punishment

• What is the purpose of punishment in modern criminal justice systems?
• How does cultural context influence the perception and application of punishment?
• What are the ethical implications of using corporal punishment in schools?
• How does the principle of proportionality apply to sentencing in cases of white-collar crime?
• To what extent should the concept of restorative justice be integrated into criminal justice systems?
• If a self-driving car were to cause an accident resulting in fatalities, how should the vehicle's manufacturer be punished?
• In a society where crime rates are extremely low, would the abolition of punishment be feasible or desirable?
• How does the intersection of race, class, and gender influence the imposition of punishment?
• What are the long-term social and economic consequences of mass incarceration?
• How have the theories and practices of punishment evolved over time?
• What lessons can be learned from historical examples of excessive or unjust punishment?
• Is the use of solitary confinement a cruel and unusual punishment?
• How should the criminal justice system respond to the challenges posed by cybercrime?
• What are the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence in sentencing and corrections?

Enforcement Law Essay Ideas

• Is the use of force by law enforcement officers justified in all circumstances?
• What are the ethical implications of racial profiling?
• Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime?
• How does the Fourth Amendment protect citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures?
• What are the legal consequences of police misconduct?
• How does the Bail Reform Act impact the criminal justice system?
• If a law enforcement officer uses excessive force in an arrest, who is liable for any resulting damages?
• In a scenario where a defendant is wrongfully convicted, what are their options for seeking justice?
• How does the intersection of race, class, and gender influence the enforcement of law?
• What are the challenges and opportunities of community policing?
• How has the role of law enforcement evolved over time?
• What lessons can be learned from historical examples of police brutality?
• Is the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement ethical?
• How should the legal system address the issue of mass incarceration?
• What are the legal and ethical implications of using drones for law enforcement purposes?

International Law Essay Topics

• Is the doctrine of state sovereignty outdated in the modern world?
• Is the principle of self-determination absolute?
• Should international law regulate the use of outer space?
• When is the use of economic sanctions justified?
• Is it ethical for states to intervene in the internal affairs of other countries?
• To what extent is international law effective in regulating the use of force?
• How can international law address the challenges of climate change?
• What are the ethical implications of using cyber warfare to target civilian infrastructure?
• If a country violates international human rights law, what are the obligations of other states to respond?
• Should the United Nations have the authority to intervene in internal conflicts?
• Is the International Court of Justice more effective than the International Criminal Court?
• Which approach to addressing global poverty is more effective: foreign aid or trade liberalization?
• Does globalization contribute to human rights violations?
• What are the long-term consequences of nuclear proliferation?
• Has the Law of the Sea Convention been effective in protecting marine resources?

Constitutional Law Essay Topics

• How does the concept of judicial review balance the powers of the legislature and the judiciary in a democratic system?
• Discuss the role of constitutional amendments in adapting a nation's fundamental laws to changing societal needs and values.
• Examine the tension between individual rights and the collective good in constitutional law.
• To what extent should the First Amendment protect hate speech and offensive content?
• Analyze the Supreme Court's rulings on the Second Amendment and the right to bear arms.
• Discuss the implications of the Commerce Clause on federalism and state power.
• How has the Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause been used to address issues of racial discrimination and gender inequality?
• If a government were to enact a law that prohibited citizens from criticizing the government, would such a law violate the First Amendment's guarantee of freedom of speech?
• Imagine a scenario where a state passes a law that allows police to conduct warrantless searches of homes in certain neighborhoods. Would such a law be constitutional under the Fourth Amendment's protection against unreasonable searches and seizures?
• Compare and contrast the approaches taken by the United States and the United Kingdom in protecting individual rights.
• How does the concept of "rule of law" differ in common law and civil law systems?
• What are the potential consequences of a government's decision to limit access to voting rights?
• Should the death penalty be abolished on constitutional grounds?
• How did the Civil Rights Movement shape the interpretation and application of the Fourteenth Amendment?
• Examine the role of the Supreme Court in shaping constitutional law during the Warren Court era.

Business Law Essay Topics

• What is the significance of contract law in modern business?
• Analyze the differences in labor laws between the United Kingdom and Germany.
• How does corporate social responsibility influence business ethics?
• Discuss the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in business decision-making.
• Analyze the legal framework governing mergers and acquisitions in the European Union.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of international trade agreements in promoting economic growth and development.
• A company is accused of violating consumer protection laws. What defenses can it raise?
• A start-up is considering expanding into a new market. What legal considerations should it take into account?
• Compare and contrast the legal systems of the United States and China in terms of intellectual property protection.
• Discuss the legal issues arising from the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica data scandal.
• What role should governments play in regulating business activities to protect the environment?
• Evaluate the impact of the GDPR on European businesses.
• How has the pandemic affected the global supply chain and its legal implications?
• Analyze the legal challenges and opportunities presented by the rise of cryptocurrency.
• Is it ethical for corporations to prioritize profit maximization over social responsibility?

Contract Law Topics for Essays

• Does the doctrine of privity of contract limit the ability of third parties to enforce contracts?
• What are the long-term consequences of excessive reliance on standard-form contracts?
• Has the Uniform Commercial Code been effective in promoting efficiency in commercial transactions?
• Is the doctrine of implied terms necessary for the fair interpretation of contracts?
• To what extent is the doctrine of consideration necessary for the formation of a valid contract?
• How effective are liquidated damages clauses in mitigating the consequences of breach of contract?
• What are the ethical implications of using boilerplate contracts?
• If a party to a contract makes a unilateral mistake, should the contract be voidable?
• Should the doctrine of frustration apply to unforeseen events that were reasonably foreseeable?
• Is the law of contract more favorable to the party who drafted the contract or to the other party?
• Which approach to remedies for breach of contract is more effective: damages or specific performance?
• Is the doctrine of frustration a fair remedy for unforeseen events?
• Should the law of contract be more flexible in response to changing circumstances?
• When is it ethical to use duress to induce a party to enter into a contract?
• Is it fair to impose liability on a party who made a reasonable mistake of fact?

Employment Law Topics to Write about

• What is the legal definition of an independent contractor?
• How does the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) regulate minimum wage and overtime pay?
• What are the legal consequences of workplace discrimination?
• How does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protect the rights of employees with disabilities?
• What are the legal requirements for workplace safety?
• How does the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) protect employees' rights to take time off for family-related reasons?
• If an employee is fired for reporting illegal activity, can they claim whistleblower protection?
• In a scenario where an employee is sexually harassed by a supervisor, what are their legal options?
• How does the intersection of race, class, and gender influence employment opportunities?
• What are the legal and ethical challenges of gig economy work?
• How has the concept of employment law evolved over time?
• What lessons can be learned from historical examples of labor disputes?
• Is the use of non-compete agreements fair to employees?
• How should the legal system address the issue of workplace harassment?
• What are the legal and ethical implications of using artificial intelligence in hiring and employment decisions?

Medical Law Topics to Write about

• What are the ethical implications of physician-assisted suicide?
• How should the legal system balance patient autonomy with the duty to protect life?
• What are the legal and ethical considerations surrounding organ donation and transplantation?
• How does the concept of informed consent apply to experimental medical treatments?
• What are the legal consequences of medical malpractice?
• How should the legal system address the issue of medical errors?
• If a patient's medical records are hacked, who is liable for any resulting damages?
• In a scenario where a patient refuses life-saving treatment due to religious beliefs, what are the doctor's obligations?
• How does the intersection of race, class, and gender influence access to healthcare?
• What are the legal and ethical challenges of providing healthcare in developing countries?
• How has the concept of medical professionalism evolved over time?
• What lessons can be learned from historical examples of medical experimentation?
• Is the use of genetic testing in healthcare ethical and legal?
• How should the legal system regulate the use of artificial intelligence in medicine?
• What are the legal and ethical implications of using CRISPR gene editing technology?

A Quick Recap

While law essay topics may rise and fall in popularity, a few classics never go out of style:

• Human Rights: Issues such as the death penalty, abortion, and LGBTQ+ rights continue to be hotly debated.
• Environmental Law: Climate change, pollution, and sustainable development are pressing concerns in today's world.
• Technology Law: Legal implications of artificial intelligence, cybercrime, and data privacy are fascinating areas to explore.

If picking a topic still feels like a challenge, or you need help polishing your essay, EssayService has got your back. Our team of seasoned writers can guide you from brainstorming to the final proofreading, making sure your essay hits the mark!

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How to plan and outline law essays.

• Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic, present your thesis statement, and outline the main points you will cover in your essay.
• Body Paragraphs: Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or argument that supports your thesis. Begin with a topic sentence that introduces the paragraph’s main point, followed by evidence from your research, including case law, statutes, and scholarly commentary. Analyse this evidence in the context of your argument, demonstrating how it supports your thesis.
• Conclusion: Summarise the main arguments made in your essay, reinforcing how they support your thesis. Address any implications, suggest areas for further research, or provide a concluding thought on the essay topic.

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Academic Writing and Research in Law

• UTS Guide to Writing in Law A highly recommended helpful and comprehensive guide to writing law papers.
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• University of Queensland Legal Research Essentials Introduction to Legal Research by The University of Queensland, Australia

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• Quoting, Paraphrasing, Summarising The basic differences in how to writes quotes, how to write paraphrases, and how to write summaries of the sources you find.

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Academic and professional legal writing requires you to develop an argument and demonstrate relationships between the ideas you are expressing. 

Therefore, the ability to express yourself clearly and accurately is important.  Here you will find information to help you improve your writing for any purpose in your law degree.

Academic writing in law is:

Academic writing in law does not:   

Steps to Writing a Law Essay

Throughout your law degree, you will be expected to write a range of different texts, including research essays, responses to problem questions, and case notes.

Not matter the type of text you are asked to produce for an assignment, make sure you follow these steps:

• Plan :  read the questions carefully and think about how you will answer it
• Research :  read, read and read! Make use of everything available to you - don't forget the library!
• Make thorough notes : include all important (and relevant) details and quotes and take note of the source. Make sure you organise your notes so as to make the writing task easier
• Write the first draft :  before you start writing your first draft, refer back to your initial plan and make any necessary changes now you have done your research and gathered your notes. 
• Review and edit :  remember to proofread your work!

The IRAC Method

IRAC is an acronym that stands for: Issue, Rule, Application, and Conclusion. It functions as a methodology for legal analysis and is used as a framework for organising your answer to an essay question in law school.

[ Open All | Close All ]

In legal writing, issues are the core of the essay.

This part of the essay should:

• Identify and state the issue
• Name those involved (plaintiff and defendant) and briefly describe their individual issues
• Work out what body of law may govern the resolution of the issue (e.g. Contract Law)

The rule describes which law applies to the issue. The rule should be stated as a general principle, and not a conclusion to the particular case being briefed.

• Outline the legal principles that will be used to address to the issue
• Source legal principles from cases and legislation

The application is the most important and longest part of your answer. It involves applying the Rule to the facts of the issue and demonstrating how those facts do or do not meet the requirements laid down by the rules. Discuss both sides of the case when possible.

• Explain why the plaintiff's claims are or are not justified
• Identify how the law will be used by the plaintiff and defendant to argue their case
• Use relevant cases and legal principles to support your writing
• Do not try to strengthen your argument by leaving out elements or facts that will hurt it

As with all essays, the conclusion is a statement that identifies your answer to the issue.

• Identify what the result of your argument ir, or what it should be
• State who is liable for what and to what extent
• Consider how the plaintiff and defendant could have acted to avoid this legal issue

Useful Links:

• UWA IRAC Guide This guide from the University of Western Australia offers examples of how the IRAC method can be applied to different cases.
• Law School Survival: The IRAC Method A useful site that presents a detailed outline of the IRAC method as well as skeleton outlines.

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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...

• Freedom of Expression
• Freedom of Speech

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...

• Abortion Debate

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...

• Criminal Investigation

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...

• Legal cases

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...

• Judicial System

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....

• Business Analysis

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
• International Law

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...

• Constitution

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...

• Medieval Europe

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
• Gender Inequality

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...

• Public School

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
• Social Justice

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
• Juvenile Crime
• Juvenile Justice System

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...

• Criminal Behavior

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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Sample Essays

The breadth of Georgetown’s core curriculum means that students are required to write for a wide variety of academic disciplines. Below, we provide some student samples that exhibit the key features the most popular genres. When reading through these essays, we recommend paying attention to their 

1. Structure (How many paragraphs are there? Does the author use headers?) 

2. Argument (Is the author pointing out a problem, and/or proposing a solution?) 

3. Content (Does the argument principally rely on facts, theory, or logic?) and 

4. Style (Does the writer use first person? What is the relationship with the audience?)

Philosophy Paper

• Singer on the Moral Status of Animals

Theology Paper

• Problem of God
• Jewish Civilization
• Sacred Space and Time
• Phenolphthalein in Alkaline Solution

History Paper

• World History

Literature Review

Comparative Analysis 

Policy Brief

• Vaccine Manufacturing

White Paper

Critical Analysis

• Ignatius Seminar

Writing Competition

The  Harvard Law Review  is composed of second- and third-year law students who are selected via a six-day writing competition at the end of each academic year. The Review strongly encourages all students to participate in the writing competition, which consists of two parts:

• Subcite: this portion, worth 50% of the competition score, requires students to perform a technical and substantive edit of an excerpt from an unpublished article
• Case Comment : this portion, also worth 50%, requires students to describe and analyze a recent case

The competition uses a closed universe of materials provided to all competition-takers; no additional outside research of any kind is allowed or required. The use of any form of Artificial Intelligence during the competition is also strictly prohibited.

Based on the competition, fifty-four second-year students are invited to join the Review each year, including:

• Twenty selected based solely on competition scores
• Seven (one from each 1L section) selected based on an equally weighted combination of competition scores and first-year grades
• Three (from any section) selected based on an equally weighted combination of competition scores and first-year grades
• Twenty-four selected through an anonymous holistic review (see below for details)

The  Review  is committed to a diverse and inclusive membership and encourages all students to participate in the writing competition. Harvard Law School students who are interested in joining the  Review  must write the competition at the end of their first year, even if they plan to take time off during law school or are pursuing a joint degree and plan to spend time at another graduate school.

Timeline & Resources

The 2024 Competition will take place from Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18 . Writing competition tips and Q&A sessions will be held in early and mid-April.

Registration will open in April 2024. We expect to invite editors to join Volume 139 over the course of several days in late July. Orientation for new editors is scheduled for the week of July 22nd and will take place remotely. Volume 139 will resume a past practice of an in-person Orientation for half a day near the start of the Fall 2024 Semester. Editors are expected to be fully available during this time. In August, editors will have Law Review assignments, but these assignments can be completed simultaneously with other commitments (internships, events, travel, etc.).

For more information about the competition, the following resources are available:

• The 2024 Application and Information Packet . The application information packet is designed to provide some specific guidance about approaching the case comment and subcite portions of the competition. Please note that the sample competition submissions included in the packet are merely representative and are by no means definitive examples.
• Tips Session and Q&A. Video of our April 1, 2024 writing competition tips session and our April 11, 2024 subcite Q & A session is available on our YouTube channel. The. This questions and answers document summarizes the Q&A portion of the April 13, 2023 session.
• Factsheet: This document responds to common questions and concerns we have heard.
• Sample Schedules: This includes a variety of writing competition schedules used by current editors.
• FAQ on Accommodations . See below for more information on disabilities and accommodations.

Competition & Membership Policies

Holistic consideration.

Applicants will have the opportunity to convey aspects of their identity which have led to the development of character qualities or unique abilities that can contribute to the Law Review , including but not limited to their racial or ethnic identity, disability status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Applicants can do so by submitting an additional expository statement.  Statements will be considered by the Selection Committee only after grading of the competition has been completed. Statements will remain anonymous and will not be evaluated for quality of writing or editing, nor will they be assigned a numerical score.

Applicants are welcome to draft their expository statements before the competition week begins, and the prompt for the 200-word statement is as follows:

“You are strongly encouraged to use the space below to submit a typed expository statement of no more than 200 words. This statement may identify and describe aspects of your identity which have impacted your development of certain character qualities or unique abilities that can serve as an asset to the Law Review and are not fully captured by the categories on the previous page, including, but not limited to, racial or ethnic identity, socioeconomic background, disability (physical, intellectual, cognitive/ neurological, psychiatric, sensory, developmental, or other), gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, country of origin or international status, religious identity or expression, undergraduate institution(s), age, academic or career trajectory prior to law school, military status, cultural background, or parental/caretaker status. Additionally or alternatively, you may use this statement to identify and describe areas of academic or scholarly interest, career goals, or any other element of your identity that you would bring to your work on the Law Review .

Statements will be considered only after grading of the subcite and case comment sections of the competition has been completed. Statements will not be evaluated for quality of writing or editing, nor will they be assigned a numerical score. No applicant will be penalized in any way for not submitting an optional statement, and all optional statements are completely confidential.”

Deferral & Leave

Harvard Law Review will invite students to join Vol. 139 in mid-July. Students invited to join Vol. 138 who are taking a full-year leave of absence from HLS will be allowed to defer their membership in Law Review for the year. They may then join the Law Review as members of Vol. 140 in fall 2025 and serve as editors for two years. Editors typically serve for two full academic years to ensure ample time for training, acclimation to their roles on the Review , and opportunities to make collective decisions about our work.

Students invited to join Vol. 139 who are taking a fall-semester leave of absence from HLS are encouraged to still join as editors with Vol. 139. If joining with Vol. 139, editors will be expected to complete Law Review work during the fall, even though they are on leave from HLS. They will then serve as editors for two years. Alternatively, students taking a one-semester leave may wait to join until fall of the following year (fall 2025); in that case, they will have no Law Review obligations during the 2024-2025 academic year and will participate as Law Review editors for a single year.

Transfer Students

Prospective transfer students may take the competition at the same time as Harvard Law School 1Ls. Prospective transfer students are selected on the same anonymous grading basis as Harvard 1Ls and are eligible for 44 of the spots on the Review (in other words, all spots besides the 10 allotted to Harvard 1Ls for whom first-year grades play a role). Prospective transfer students may submit an anonymized, unofficial transcript when their 1L grades are released if they would like their grades to be considered in the Law Review ’s holistic review process. The Review ’s membership decisions do not affect the admissions decisions of Harvard Law School.

Recognizing that the competition schedule poses unique challenges to prospective transfer applicants, the Review also allows transfer students to take the competition at the end of their 2L year. Up to four spots are available for such students. However, no student may attempt the competition more than once, and this option is only available to transfer students who did not previously take the competition. Like prospective transfer students, rising third-year students may submit their grades, but they will not be eligible for the 10 slots that incorporate first-year grades.

Prospective 1L transfer students should email [email protected] for information about registering.

SJD Students

SJD students at Harvard Law School may serve as editors of the Law Review . To join, SJDs take the same writing competition as JD students and are eligible for 44 of the editorial positions (all spots besides those allotted to JD 1Ls for whom first-year grades play a role). SJDs should take the competition only if they are certain they have at least two years remaining in their program of study. Additionally, as with all candidates, SJDs are permitted to participate in the writing competition only once.

Disabilities & Accommodations

The Harvard Law Review is firmly committed to providing accommodations for students with disabilities and handles requests on a case-by-case basis. The Law Review is an independent entity and thus has its own accommodations system separate from Harvard Law School’s Dean of Students Office.

Accommodations requests can be submitted between Monday, March 11th and Friday, April 12th and will be processed on a rolling basis. Students are strongly encouraged to submit their accommodation requests as soon as possible even if they are not yet certain they will take the competition. Please see our answers to FAQ on accommodations to learn more about what documentation is needed.

The Law Review strives to keep information regarding disabilities and accommodations as confidential as possible. Nothing about your accommodations application or your receipt of accommodations will be part of the Competition entry that is considered in the selection process. All Competition grading is doubly anonymized. Jennifer Heath, a non-student HLR staff member manages the logistics related to our accommodations process, and accommodations recommendations to the Law Review are made by our testing consultant, Dr. Loring Brinckerhoff.

• College of Arts & Sciences
• Graduate School of Education & Counseling

Global Law Writing Competitions

Students have the chance to be recognized for outstanding scholarship by writing competitions in areas of global law.

Davis Wright Tremaine International Law Writing Award (limited to Lewis & Clark students)

ABA Commission on Domestic and Sexual Violence

Benjamin B. Ferencz Essay Competition (international criminal law)

GoJIL Essay Competition (set topic)

Holocaust Remembrance Essay Award

James Baker Hughes Prize (international economic law)

ICSID Student Writing Competition (international investment arbitration)

International Humanitarian Student Writing Competition

Rona R. Mears Student Writing Competition (set topic)

Mendes Hershman Award (international business)

Daniel T. Murphy Student Writing Competition (international business)

Albert S. Pergam International Law Writing Competition Award

Science and Human Rights Student Essay Competition

Trandafir Writing Competition (international business)

Andrew P. Vance Memorial Writing Competition (customs and international trade)

Virginia Human Rights Competition

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Example: Writing Service, Undergraduate Essay, Law

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Example: Writing Service, Undergraduate Essay, Law (6)

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Example: Writing Service, Undergraduate Essay, Law (5)

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