Writing Law Dissertations: An Introduction and Guide to the Conduct of Legal Research

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‘This is a book that is long overdue, and I am certain will be seized upon by tutors everywhere. It will serve students writing dissertations, and I might add, extended essays, very well indeed, combining pragmatic guidance on engaging in and managing research with the help of supervisors, with advice on the importance of methodological rigour.’ Peter Billings – UWE

‘I would love my dissertation and project students to have a copy’

Charlotte Smith – University of Reading

“This is an excellent book, full of practical guidance to help students cope with their first major piece of independent research” Catherine Elliott – City University

How should you choose your dissertation topic? What is the best research method to adopt? What is going to make your dissertation achieve the best grades?

Whether you are an undergraduate or postgraduate law student, working on a dissertation for the first time is an exciting yet often daunting experience. Writing Law Dissertations provides a clear, helpful and honest guide to every stage of the research and writing process specifically for law students, and answers the many questions that face first-time researchers. This essential reference book is uniquely based on the experiences of real law students, and draws on the authors’ extensive knowledge to help you to enjoy and succeed in your legal research project.

The book gives comprehensive guidance on:

• Choosing a topic and getting started

• Working effectively with your supervisor

• Time management

• Adopting appropriate research methods

• Understanding theoretical approaches: black-letter, feminist, sociolegal, historical and interpretive.

About the authors

Michael Salter is Professor of Law at the Universityof Central Lancashire. He has teaching experience in degree level courses in property law, equity and trusts, land law, human rights law and research methods. He is also Postgraduate Coordinator.

Julie Mason is a Senior Lecturer in Law at the Universityof Central Lancashire, with teaching interests in the areas of family law, sentencing and the treatment of offenders, criminology and lawyer’s skills.