As stated in the Handbook of Academic Policies, upper-level J.D. students (2Ls and 3Ls) complete a J.D. Written Work Requirement in two areas. First, the professional writing requirement is met by written work that would typically be created in the course of ordinary legal practice by an attorney: this writing is done through clinics. Second, the analytical paper requirement is an academic research paper, the kind of writing published in a law review; this writing happens in analytical paper courses, writing groups, and independent writing (including the winter writing program). In each requirement, students both give and receive peer review because the practice of law involves giving and receiving feedback on writing all the time. Upper-level J.D.s have access to one-on-one consulting sessions and other resources at the HLS Writing Center.
The J.D. Written Work Requirement
Additional Writing Opportunities
J.D. Written Work Registration Forms
Resources for J.D. Writers
The HLS Writing Center
The HLS Writing Center offers comments and consultations on writing for coursework and publication.
- Schedule an appointment.
- Send along your writing.
- Get back written comments.
- Meet to discuss your paper.
HLS Writes
HLS Writes is home to the culture of writing at Harvard Law School—a hub connecting students to writing requirements, resources, and opportunities around campus.