How to Write a Legal Essay by Anubhav Verma [AIR 17, DJS]

By Anubhav Verma, AIR 17, DJS

Writing a strong legal essay is essential for success in judicial examinations. In this insightful article, Anubhav Verma (AIR 17, Delhi Judicial Services) shares practical advice and proven techniques to help aspirants excel.

The guide covers how to structure your essay, present clear arguments, and use relevant examples, ensuring your writing stands out to examiners.

Whether you are just starting your preparation or looking to refine your skills, these expert tips offer valuable guidance for every judicial services candidate.

Part A: Structuring the Essay

Before beginning to write, spend 5 to 8 minutes calmly organizing your thoughts. A well-structured essay demonstrates clarity of thought.

The essay may broadly be structured under the following 5 heads:

1. Taking a Stand: Begin by clearly articulating your stand on the issue at hand. Take a position—endorse it, favour it, or describe it succinctly. A defined stance sets the tone.

2. Advantages/Benefits: Follow this with a discussion on the advantages or merits of the proposition. Highlight the positive aspects in a structured manner.

3. Grey Areas/Challenges/Cons: Proceed to identify and elaborate upon the challenges, drawbacks, or problematic aspects of the issue. This brings balance and depth to your analysis.

4. Addressing the Grey Areas: After acknowledging the limitations, attempt to address or refute them through logical reasoning and counterpoints. This part showcases your analytical ability and objectivity.

5. Suggestions/Roadmap/Way Forward: Conclude on an optimistic note. Reiterate your stance (or suggest a balanced, middle-path approach if appropriate) and propose practical solutions or a forward-looking roadmap.

Part B: Key Pointers for Excellence

1. Prepare Introductions with Quotes: Prepare and memorize interesting introductory quotes for at least 20–30 important and frequently discussed legal issues. They add weight to your introduction.

2. Maintain Simplicity in Language: Use short and simple sentences. Avoid overly complex language that may obscure clarity.

3. Support with Authority: Always substantiate your statements with relevant case laws, Law Commission reports, committee findings, etc. Avoid vague generalisations.

4. Use Headings and Formatting Wisely: Create and underline headings where necessary. This improves readability and demonstrates clear organization.

5. Incorporate Quotations Thoughtfully: A well-placed quote can elevate both the introduction and conclusion. Build a solid collection of quotes and use them wisely.

6. Improve Handwriting: Legible and neat handwriting creates a positive first impression and facilitates better understanding for the examiner.

7. Ensure Visual Clarity: Leave at least two lines between paragraphs. A clean layout makes your essay visually appealing.

8. Emphasize Key Elements: Underline critical names, such as case titles, jurists, or reports, to make them stand out.

9. Maintain Logical Flow: Ensure each paragraph transitions smoothly into the next. Coherence is essential for a persuasive essay.

10. Content Is King: Read extensively. A strong foundational knowledge base is irreplaceable. The depth and quality of your content will ultimately set your essay apart.

Real Exam Essay Copy That Scored 24/25 Marks in Delhi Judicial Service

Here is a scanned copy of Anubhav Verma’s essay answer, where the strategy discussed in this article was put into practice. This answer was awarded 24 out of 25 marks in the Delhi Judicial Service Examination. Pay attention to the introduction, logical flow, and concise conclusions, all key elements that contributed to the high score.

Check out the original post by Anubhav Verma (AIR 17, DJS) on Linkedin here!