Legal Reports
Introduction
Legal Reports are formal pieces of writing that explore a particular legal issue in depth. While a major component of the report is to analyse the issue and the perspectives held, it is equally important to evaluate alternative viewpoints, legal frameworks and reform options; as well as to present justified recommendations for improving the issue through law.
Sections/Components
There are key sections and components that need to be included in a legal inquiry report.
Title page
Contents
Analysis of the nature and scope of the legal issue
Analysis of stakeholders' viewpoints (including opposing viewpoints)
Evaluation of two legal alternatives
Recommendations to reform the laws
Headings, subheadings, in-text references and a reference list
Examples
Below are two examples of a legal reports regarding defamation laws in Australia, and a link to the sample provided by QCAA regarding surrogacy.
Tips and Tricks
Some key points to consider when writing a legal report:
use third person pronouns
use evaluative and analytical language
use cohesive devices to synthesis legal evidence and claims
ensure the layout/fonts/colours of the report are easy to follow (headings, subheadings, etc)