8 Law Project Ideas for High School Students

High school is a time of exploration and self-discovery, and what better way to channel that curiosity than by delving into legal studies? Studying law nurtures critical thinking and research skills and provides valuable insights into the mechanisms that govern our society. Polygence empowers high school students to pursue their passions through legal research projects, so in this blog post, we’ll present you with ten law project ideas that will ignite your public interest and broaden your understanding of the legal world. 

Why Study Law in High School? 

Before we jump into the exciting project ideas, let’s explore why high schoolers should consider studying law topics even before entering law school:

1. Understanding Society: Law is the backbone of societal organization. Studying legal concepts allows aspiring law students to comprehend the structures that shape human behavior, relationships, and governance. 

2. Advocacy and Public Speaking: Law projects often involve presenting arguments and opinions. High school students can develop strong advocacy and public speaking skills when doing a senior law project or participating in a law internship, enhancing their communication ability. 

3. Ethical Decision-Making: Legal studies involve exploring ethical dilemmas and making informed decisions. High schoolers can cultivate a sense of responsibility and ethical reasoning through legal research and engagement with law topics even if they’ve yet to decide on going to one of the best criminology schools. 

Now, let’s delve into the ten law project ideas.

10 Law Project Ideas for High School Students

#1 Exploring the Evolution of Privacy Laws in the Digital Age

Delve into the historical progression of privacy laws, analyzing their adaptation to the challenges of advancing technology in the digital age. You will be able to investigate the implications of surveillance, data collection, and digital communication on consumer information and individual privacy rights. This is a pressing topic in an age where technology runs everything around us. 

#2 Analyzing the Legal Implications of Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace

Artificial intelligence is all the craze in the workforce today. Here, you will embark on an in-depth exploration of the legal landscape surrounding the integration of artificial intelligence. As with the development of any new technological advancement comes the question of how to regulate it. Investigate issues such as employment rights in the context of AI-driven decision-making, accountability for algorithmic actions, and potential regulations and representation needed to protect workers. 

#3 The Role of First Amendment Rights in High School Education

Explore the nuanced boundaries of First Amendment rights within the high school environment. Investigate cases and controversies surrounding free speech, expression, and assembly in educational institutes. This project aims to analyze legal precedents and the unique challenges posed by balancing students’ constitutional rights with the need for a safe and productive learning environment. 

#4 Examining the Legal and Ethical Dimensions of Genetic Editing Techniques

For those interested in the intersection of law and science, this is the perfect project for you. You will engage in a thorough exploration of the legal and ethical implications surrounding gene editing techniques like CRISPR. Investigate questions related to informed consent, ownership of modified genes, and potential regulations governing gene editing. 

#5 The Intersection of Technology and Intellectual Property Laws

In this project, you will conduct a detailed exploration of the legal challenges arising from technological advancements, specifically within the realm of intellectual property. Issues such as digital piracy, patent controversies, and the balance between fostering innovation and protecting intellectual creations are all pressing issues that you can investigate. Hopefully, you will be able to analyze legal precedents, contemporary litigation, and the evolving landscape of technology-related property issues. 

#6 Analyzing the Legal Frameworks of Immigration Policies

Undertake a thorough analysis of the legal frameworks underpinning immigration policies. Today, the southern border is of great debate in policies, so this would be a great case study to use. Explore the historical context, current legislation, and the impact of immigration laws on individuals and communities. This project aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the legal complexities around immigration and the needed legal assistance. 

#7 The Impact of Criminal Justice Reform on Minority Communities

This comprehensive investigation on the impact of criminal justice reform on minority and low income communities can provide insights into the successes and challenges of criminal justice reform efforts in addressing systemic inequalities. Analyze the effects of policy changes, sentencing disparities, and law enforcement practices on marginalized populations. By examining these, you can contribute to the valuable ongoing dialogue surrounding the intersection of law, justice, and equity. 

#8 The Influence of Social Media on Jury Bias and Trial Outcomes

Juries are supposed to be devoid of any sources of bias when coming to a final decision. But is it really possible for them to have no bias at all? In this paper, you will investigate the nuanced influence of social media on jury perceptions and trial outcomes. Examine cases where social media has played a role in shaping public opinion and potentially biasing juries. This project aims to provide insights into the legal challenges associated with managing the impact of social media on the judicial process. 

Exploring and Excelling in Law with Polygence

Embarking on a law research project in high school opens the door to a wealth of knowledge and skills that extend beyond the classroom. These ten project ideas offer a diverse array of topics to explore, ranging from technology to social media to immigration. Polygence encourages high school students to embrace the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of law through our core program. Want even more ideas? Check out our project ideas generator that combines all the facets of your interests into the perfect project.

Here are some past examples of Polygence research projects in the field of law:

1. Mental Health and School Shootings: In this project, Anwita explores the link between mental health issues and the incidence of school shootings. Specific to law, she then seeks to determine whether mental health truly plays a role in the sentencing school shooters get in court.

2. Assessment of Affordable Care Act: Anya conducts an assessment of the well-known Affordable Care Act, and determines whether it truly has an impact on healthcare access. Papers like this are great examples of the interdisciplinary approach that can be taken in assessing the impact of laws. 

3. Single Parenthood: An Economic Approach: In this presentation/research paper combination, Kyle analyzes the differences between United States’ GDP and income statistics, and aims to determine whether there is a link between these statistics and rates of single parenthood. From here, he aims to craft solutions for these issues with the use of policy and law.