An example of a semi-specific question. Well done.
1) You would structure the Family Law essay the same way the question has been structured. E.g. If the question was divided into several parts, then you would answer it in that format.
With respect to addressing the question, I usually start the essay with a definition of the keyword, in this case, 'alternative family arrangements.' I would highlight the important aspects which constitute to such a family unit and then list the ones you would like to refer to. Then on each new paragraph, I would be discussing different types of family units.
2) Legal essays are usually unstructured, that is, they give you a broad qestion and it is up to you to interpret and give meaning to the question in your opening paragraph. This will effectively force the marker to mark your essay in the way you interpret things and ambiguuty is erased.
-(SantaSlayer's tip of the week
)-The exception is Crime.
AFA's include:
a) Indigenious Australians
b) Single parent families
c)Blended families
d) Homosexuals
e) De Factos
Four topics in an essay is typically the standard, depending on the depth of your topics. Eg. You can go forever with homosexuals.
3) Generally the question will ask you evaluate both the effectiveness for the individual and society as a whole. Broad headings which you might like to refer to when evaluating effectiveness of any law in any Legal topics are:
-The inadequecies of exisiting law.
-Time
-Cost
-Equality
-Accessibility
-Resource efficency
-Enforecment/protection
-Law as a reflection of community standards
-Balance of individual rights and community rights
Always to remember to include international law in your essay. Eg. De Jure Relationship. A brief note about law reform and a critical analysis of all aspects of the legal system usually guarantees you a band six. Media articles, Statistics etc goes without saying.
Good Luck
