Every law student dreams of submitting a first-class essay—one that impresses professors, earns top marks, and demonstrates strong legal understanding. But writing a first-class law essay isn’t just about knowing the law. It’s about how you communicate it.
At Law Essay Pros, we know what examiners look for. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of writing a first-class law essay, from breaking down the question to perfecting your final draft.
Step 1: Understand the Essay Question
Before you start writing, take time to analyze the question. Most law essay prompts require more than one task—like defining legal principles, applying them, and evaluating their effectiveness.
Ask yourself:
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What is the legal issue?
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What type of response is needed? (e.g., critical analysis, problem-solving, discussion)
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Are there key terms or cases you need to explore?
Pro tip: Highlight the command words in the question—like evaluate, discuss, or compare—as they guide the tone and purpose of your answer.
Step 2: Conduct Targeted Legal Research
Great essays are backed by relevant, up-to-date legal authority. This includes:
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Leading cases
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Statutes
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Journal articles
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Textbooks
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Legal commentary from credible sources
Make notes as you go, and track your citations early. Using the right sources demonstrates academic credibility and strengthens your arguments.
Step 3: Plan Your Structure
Structure is critical to clarity and flow. A strong essay should include:
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Introduction
Outline the topic, your thesis (main argument), and how your essay will unfold. -
Main Body
Break it into paragraphs with one issue per section. Use the IRAC or ILAC method for problem questions:-
Issue – Identify the legal issue.
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Rule – State the relevant law.
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Application – Apply the law to facts or scenarios.
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Conclusion – Briefly wrap up the section.
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Conclusion
Reaffirm your main points and answer the question definitively—without introducing new information.
Pro tip: Use headings or subheadings (if permitted) for easier navigation.
Step 4: Write With Precision and Clarity
Legal writing should be formal, concise, and persuasive. Avoid filler phrases, overly complex language, and emotional arguments.
Do:
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Use case names and legislation properly.
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Explain the significance of each authority.
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Analyze, don’t just describe.
Don't:
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Use vague terms or informal tone.
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Copy large blocks of text from textbooks.
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Skip application—this is where most marks are earned.
Step 5: Reference Properly
Incorrect referencing can cost marks or lead to plagiarism. Use the appropriate style (OSCOLA, Bluebook, AGLC, etc.) consistently throughout your essay.
Quick checklist:
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Are all sources cited in footnotes?
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Is your bibliography complete?
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Have you paraphrased rather than copied?
Step 6: Edit, Proofread, and Polish
Editing is where good essays become great. Look out for:
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Grammar and spelling errors
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Repetitive wording
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Gaps in logic or unclear arguments
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Missing citations or formatting issues
Consider reading your essay aloud or asking a peer to review it.
Bonus: Use Model Answers for Guidance
Sometimes, the best way to learn is by example. At Law Essay Pros, we provide custom-written, first-class model answers to help students see how professionals approach legal writing—from structure to analysis to citation.
Conclusion
Writing a first-class law essay is a skill that combines legal knowledge with strategy, research, and presentation. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be on the path to writing essays that impress your lecturers and elevate your grades.
If you’re short on time or need expert guidance, Law Essay Pros is here to help. We offer custom essay support, editing services, and one-on-one writing help—so you can submit every assignment with confidence.
Need help writing a first-class law essay?
Contact Law Essay Pros today and let our legal experts support your success.