To start with, I would like you to know that writing a law dissertation or thesis needs careful planning as well research and attention to detail. This is necessary for how to write a law dissertation.
First, ensure that you choose a very relevant topic. For example, you might want to write about topics relating to land law, law of contract, criminal law, public law, international law, family law, company law, English legal system or equity & trusts.
You should make sure that your chosen topic is not too broad as well as not too narrow. Your topic should be very specific to allow for in-depth critical analysis.
Conduct a thorough research – This is a must
To do this, the use of variety of sources becomes very necessary. Sources such as textbooks, academic law journal articles and statutes. This is necessary for proper citation and referencing, most especially for those using OSCOLA referencing method.
Structure your dissertation
This is sine qua non. There is a need to make use of a standard structure that includes the necessary aspects of a dissertation, for example, the introduction, the literature review, the methodology, findings, analysis, the conclusion and lastly the bibliography. A reminder that a law tutor or a private law tutor can also guide you on how to write an excellent dissertation.
The Introduction
This is an opportunity to clearly state the research question which is also known as hypothesis. This is where the background information and the context for the study should be provided. You also need to outline the structure that your dissertation will follow. What you intend to do in the main body of the dissertation or thesis should be signposted as well as any indication of a conclusion.
Literature Review
You have a lot of work to do here. You should read from several sources before you start to write this. Analyse existing literature which is relevant to your topic as well as identify gaps that you think should be filled by your research. You should remember to critically evaluate the laws and other sources you have made use of. This part might need the guidance of a law tutor or a private law tutor to teach you how to properly structure your literature review and what should be included.
The methodology
In this section, ensure that your research design is clearly explained, including the methods that you will use to collect data as well as analysis. Such chosen methods need to be justified and explain how the methods address your research question.
Findings
Furthermore, you should present your findings here. You should remember to relate your findings back to the research question.
Analysis And Discussion
Another best way to write a law dissertation is by analysing your research findings in the context of the existing literature. Another thing to include should be any limitations of the study.
Conclusion
Some students do not attach much importance to this section. The conclusion is as important as the main body of the dissertation. You should summarise the key findings of your dissertation and make sure that you discuss the implications of your research. Another important thing to include is to suggest some areas for future research.
Proper Citation & Referencing
For most law students in England and Wales, the most common referencing method is OSCOLA. Ensure that you use a citation method as required by your institution or university.
Seek feedback
Furthermore, it is a good practice to ask your supervisor or a law tutor to have a look at your work for formative feedback. This becomes necessary for how to write a law dissertation or thesis.
Stay focused on the research question
There is a need to always refer back to your research question throughout the dissertation. This helps with maintaining focus.
Consider different perspectives
This is very important. A good dissertation will engage with alternative viewpoints as well as counterarguments. Show clear understanding of any complexities around your topic.
Use case studies effectively
Additionally, make use of relevant case studies to support your discussions and arguments. Ensure that you compare and analyse different relevant legal authorities to strengthen your analysis.
Be mindful of word count
All the sections of your dissertation should have a meaningful contribution to the totality of arguments.
Stay Updated On Legal Developments
As a law student, you need to be aware of recent developments in law that may impact your dissertation topic. Check your literature review to ensure that it is up to date with the law.Consider ethical issues
The necessary ethical considerations relevant to your research should be clearly and sufficiently discussed. It is necessary where applicable to address any ethical concerns in the methodology section.
Test your arguments
Another important consideration is to try and present your arguments to fellow students or a law tutor to assess their effectiveness. Make good use of it and be ready, if need be, to revise your arguments but based only on criticism that is constructive.
Celebrate milestones
Taking good care of mental health is very important. One of the ways to enhance our well being is to acknowledge and celebrate achievements as you attain various milestones in your writing journey. Take breaks when necessary and acknowledging that you are making progress can help to motivate you. Writing a dissertation might not be easy but it is rewarding. This is necessary for how to write a law dissertation or thesis.
Interdisciplinary insights
If necessary and relevant, you may draw insights from other disciplines, most especially if they will enhance clear understanding of your dissertation topic. Interdisciplinary perspectives can add some value to your legal analysis.
Be meticulous with footnotes
Ensure that you pay very close attention to footnotes. This is very important. Make sure that the footnotes are complete as well as accurate.
Utilize primary and secondary sources
Make sure that you utilise both primary and secondary sources. For example, the primary sources are statutes and case laws. Secondary sources include academic law journal articles as well as commentaries.
Stay open to revisions
It is a good practice to revise your work, most especially based on the formative feedback earlier received or based on new research findings. You might also want to revise based on evolving legal perspectives. It can also improve the overall quality of the research.
Legal policy implications
Ensure that you explore how your findings might have influence on legal policies as well as regulations in practice.
Create a strong title
It is the starting point of writing an excellent dissertation. The reason is to capture the essence of the dissertation as well as grab the attention of the audience as regards the focus of your research.
Counterarguments
Be conscious of any opposing viewpoints. This should enhance the depth of your analysis.
Network with peers and tutors
Networking with peers and law tutors as well as attending workshops or seminars can build your knowledge of this area of law. It is important to discuss your ideas with others so that you can receive valuable insights.
Comparative analysis
If this applies to your topic, make use of comparative legal analysis. Write about the similarities and differences.
Use legal precedents wisely
Always support your discussions and arguments by legal authorities such as statutes and case laws. These should be effectively used. Look for legal authorities that are relevant to your topic. This becomes necessary for how to write a law dissertation or thesis.
Be mindful of word choice:
You should be mindful of your choice of words. This becomes necessary to convey clear and precise meanings. Proper use of legal language is important.
The use of technology
This is good for research and organising your work. It is good to have access to your university e-library or virtual learning environment where you can make use of legal software and legal database. Technology can be used to streamline the dissertation process. This is necessary for how to write a law dissertation or thesis.