A strong law personal statement is your opportunity to stand out from the competition when applying to university. Your statement needs to reflect your passion for law, your relevant experiences, and your commitment to pursuing a legal career. In this post, we will guide you through what to include in your law personal statement and how to make it unique, with reference to some law personal statement examples to inspire your own.
What is a Law Personal Statement?
A law personal statement is a written account that forms part of your university application, offering insight into your motivations, experiences, and aspirations as a potential law student. It’s your chance to make a strong impression on admissions tutors and demonstrate why you’re a perfect fit for their law programme.
Given the competitive nature of law programmes, particularly at prestigious institutions such as Oxford or Cambridge, your personal statement should be well-structured, clear, and reflective of your skills and ambitions. The ability to communicate your ideas effectively is crucial for a career in law, and your personal statement provides the perfect opportunity to showcase this ability.
Things You Should Include in Your Law Personal Statement
1. Start with a Strong Opening Statement
The opening of your law personal statement is crucial. Admissions tutors often read through hundreds of applications, so your introduction needs to grab their attention immediately. A well-crafted opening statement can set the tone for the rest of your personal statement and give tutors an immediate sense of your passion for law.
Consider beginning with an anecdote or personal experience that first ignited your interest in law. Avoid clichés like “I have wanted to study law since I was young”; instead, offer a fresh perspective or an experience that genuinely reflects why you are passionate about the field.
Example: “My fascination with the intricacies of justice began when I volunteered at a local legal aid clinic, where I witnessed first-hand the impact of legal expertise on people’s lives.”
2. Demonstrate Your Passion for Law
Next, it’s important to show your genuine interest in law. Explain why you want to study law and what aspects of the subject intrigue you. Are you drawn to criminal law, human rights, or perhaps corporate law? Use this section to articulate your passion for the subject.
Referring to legal personal statement examples can provide inspiration, but remember to keep your expression authentic. Instead of using vague statements, delve into specific aspects of law that excite you and how you have explored these interests, either academically or through extracurricular activities.
Example: “My study of constitutional law in A-level Politics sparked an interest in the complexities of legislative systems and the balance of power between different branches of government. I am particularly drawn to understanding how law influences societal structures and human rights.”
3. Highlight Relevant Experiences
Law is a subject that requires both intellectual engagement and practical skills, so it’s essential to include experiences that demonstrate these qualities. Work experience, internships, or voluntary work in legal settings can be invaluable in illustrating your commitment to the subject. If you haven’t had direct legal work experience, consider any other relevant roles or activities that have helped you develop skills like critical thinking, communication, or research.
For instance, debating clubs, mooting competitions, or any roles where you had to analyse information and present arguments can be highly relevant. When discussing these experiences, focus on what you learned and how they have prepared you for the challenges of studying law.
Example: “My internship at a local law firm allowed me to assist in case research, enhancing my analytical skills. This experience taught me the importance of attention to detail and the ability to approach complex legal issues with precision and clarity.”
4. Academic Achievements
While your academic records will be submitted as part of your application, your personal statement should still reflect your academic abilities. Law is a rigorous subject that requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to form coherent arguments. Use this section to highlight your academic strengths and any relevant subjects you’ve studied.
If you’ve excelled in subjects like history, politics, or philosophy—fields that require critical thinking and debate—make sure to mention how these subjects have prepared you for studying law. Linking your academic success to your suitability for a law degree demonstrates your potential to thrive in a demanding academic environment.
Example: “My study of A-level History has been instrumental in developing my ability to critically analyse sources and construct well-founded arguments—skills that are vital in law. My extended essay on civil rights movements further fuelled my interest in how legal systems evolve over time to meet societal demands.”
5. Demonstrate Knowledge of the Course and University
Tailoring your law personal statement to the specific universities you are applying to is crucial, especially if you are targeting top law schools like Oxford. Research the law programmes at your chosen universities and mention any specific aspects of the course that appeal to you. This shows that you’ve taken the time to understand what each programme offers and how it aligns with your academic and career goals.
If you’re applying for a law personal statement at Oxford, for instance, you may want to highlight your interest in the tutorial system or the opportunity to study jurisprudence under renowned legal scholars. Admissions tutors are looking for candidates who are genuinely enthusiastic about their institution’s unique offerings.
Example: “The opportunity to engage in Oxford’s tutorial system, where legal discussions are explored in-depth with subject experts, is particularly appealing to me. I look forward to challenging debates on international law, an area I hope to specialise in during my studies.”
6. Conclude with Future Aspirations
Concluding your personal statement with a reflection on your future aspirations is a great way to leave a lasting impression. Discuss what you hope to achieve with your law degree and where you see yourself in the legal field after graduation. Whether your goal is to become a barrister, solicitor, or pursue academic legal research, be clear about your ambitions.
Law is a career that requires long-term dedication and commitment, so it’s important to show that you have a well-considered plan. Avoid vague statements like “I want to help people”; instead, be specific about how you plan to contribute to the legal world.
Example: “Upon completing my law degree, I aim to specialise in international human rights law, advocating for the protection of vulnerable communities globally. My ultimate goal is to work for an international organisation where I can contribute to shaping policies that protect fundamental rights.”
The Best Universities to Study Law
When considering the best universities to study law, both in the UK and abroad, several institutions stand out for their world-class law programmes. In the UK, the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge are renowned for their rigorous legal education and prestigious reputations. These universities offer an immersive learning experience, with small tutorial groups and opportunities for deep academic discussions. Additionally, universities like the London School of Economics (LSE) and King’s College London are well-regarded for their global focus and strong law faculties.
For those considering studying law abroad, top universities include Harvard Law School in the United States, known for producing influential legal minds, and the University of Melbourne in Australia, offering a comprehensive approach to legal education. These institutions are recognised for their academic excellence, research output, and networking opportunities within the legal world. Choosing the right university depends on your career aspirations, specialisations, and the type of legal education you seek.
Final Thoughts
A well-written law personal statement should highlight your passion for law, showcase your relevant experiences, and demonstrate your commitment to a legal career. By including strong examples of your achievements, showing an understanding of the course, and articulating your future goals, you can create a compelling narrative that sets you apart from other applicants.
If you’re still unsure about how to structure your law personal statement for Oxford or for any other university in the UK, we’re here to help. Our team of experts can guide you through the process, offering advice and feedback to ensure your application stands out. Whether you need help writing your personal statement for postgraduate law studies, or for UCAS, our expert academics can increase your chances of success.
