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Directed Research at RWU Law: Tips for Success

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To graduate from RWU Law, each student must complete the school’s writing requirement “under the direct supervision of a professor or director of an institute” during which the student “must write an individually authored paper that reflects substantial legal research; presents a legal argument that is well-developed, organized, and supported; is at least 5500 words long; and is of sufficient quality to earn a grade of ‘C’ or higher.”
One way to meet this requirement is by completing a directed research paper. While it’s a rewarding process, it also requires careful planning. Here are some tips to help you get started and stay on track.

  1. Secure a Supervisor Early 
    Your supervisor is your primary guide through the process, so it’s important to reach out early. Think about people with expertise in the areas of law that excite you. When you contact them, share your proposed topic idea (even if it’s still broad) and your timeline. This shows initiative and respect for their time.

     

  2. Pick a Topic You Actually Care About
    You’ll be spending many hours researching, outlining, and writing, so choose a topic that genuinely interests you. A good paper topic is not only engaging for you but also showcases your intellectual curiosity to potential employers—especially if you use the paper as a writing sample. Your enthusiasm will translate into stronger, more engaging work.

     

  3. Aim for Legal Significance
  • The best directed research papers don’t just summarize the law—they analyze and argue. A strong topic should involve:
    • A legally significant issue,
    • An arguable position (with more than one defensible side), and
    • Timely or relevant implications.
  • You can start your search for topics by:
    • Consulting your supervisor or mentors,
    • Browsing legal news outlets like Lexis Legal News Hub, Westlaw Today, or Law.com,
    • Reading recent law review articles and bar journals,

    • Looking for cases of first impression or circuit splits. For a monthly report on circuit splits, created by the Congressional Research Service, search "Congressional Court Watcher: Circuit Splits" on Congress.gov.
      For something more unconventional, check out FindLaw’s Legally Weird blog

       

  1. Use Library Guides and Tools
    Your law librarians have prepared resources specifically to help you with topic selection, research, and writing. Don’t miss these:

These guides are designed to save you time and keep your project on track.

  1. Know the Rules on Generative AI
    RWU Law prohibits the use of generative AI to create or assist in writing your paper unless you’ve been expressly granted written permission by your supervisor. You may use AI for tasks like identifying documents in research databases or checking your own drafts for grammar or spelling. For the official policy, check the Student Handbook.
     
  2. Get Help Along the Way
    You don’t have to do this alone. At any stage of your research or writing process, you can:
  • Meet with a law librarian for an individualized research consultation. Schedule through Ask a Librarian or email LawLibraryHelp@rwu.edu.
  • Work with the Writing Center. Dr. Justin Kishbaugh, Associate Director of Academic Success & Professor of Writing, is available to help refine your arguments and strengthen your prose. You can reach him at jkishbaugh@rwu.edu.

Final Thoughts
A directed research paper is both a challenge and an opportunity. It is a challenge because it requires advanced legal research and analysis, but it is also an opportunity to explore a topic you’re passionate about and create a piece of work that reflects your skills as a future lawyer.
Plan ahead, use your resources, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. We look forward to supporting you on your research and writing journey—happy writing!


 

 



 

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