Many of the laws on the books in California are laws that have been proposed by the citizenry. The people have voted to create many of these laws, while our legislators enacted others. This project will enable you to learn about the laws of our land (state or federal) and give you the opportunity to conduct some legal research. First, you must find a current law that you believe should be altered, changed or removed from the books. You can pick any area of state law. Once you find the law you would like to change, you are to write a 3-5 page paper proposing your change. This paper should be persuasive and include information about the law as currently written, your proposed change, and the proposed results of your change.

Writing the Paper Start with an introduction that frames your topic. This may include background information or the relevant history of the law you wish to change. Next, one should describe the law you are proposing to change including the code, section and article number and your specific change. In the following paragraphs you should provide your arguments to support your change. A good paper should also anticipate and refute the counter-arguments to your proposed change. You should do this also in at least one paragraph. Finally, you should outline the anticipated results of your change. Be sure to address economic, social, and cultural changes - if applicable. The paper should close with a conclusion reminding your reader of your change and why they should support it.

Grading An "A" paper must include the following: The law as stated from the California or US Code, with proper citation. An introduction that explains the current law and its background. Your specific proposed change. The reason you wish to change your chosen code, clearly articulated with clear and convincing argument that change is necessary. Counter-arguments should be addressed and refuted. The results of your proposed change (social, economic, cultural). Note: there may be minimal change in one or all of these areas, if this is the case be sure to explain why. College-level writing: proper spelling, grammar, sentence structure, written with reasonable clarity.