The Beginner’s Guide to the Study of Law in Ghana

Published October 20, 2024

Embarking on a journey into the field of law can be daunting but exhilarating. As newcomers to this field, students can expect to grapple with complex statutes, navigate nuanced judicial decisions, and develop a keen sense of critical thinking. To excel in this demanding environment, it is essential to equip oneself with the right resources, guidance, and knowledge. 

In this article, we identify and explore the essential books that will serve as great guides for new law students in Ghana. 

On top of our list of recommended books is Glanville Williams: Learning the Law.

First published in 1945, this book has been introducing all levels of readers to the skills needed to study law. Indeed, it is one of the most recommended books for students beginning the study of Law. The book, amongst others:

1. Gives a concise and in-depth overview of the English legal system.
2. Gives guidance on how to approach case readings and how to identify legal principles in such cases.
3. Offers advice on effective study and exam preparation methods.
4. Corrects common misconceptions about the law.

Because of its great content, Glanville Williams: Learning the Law serves as a useful throughout law school. Newcomers are therefore encouraged to find one soon.

Second on our list is Reading the Law by Benjamin Tachie Antiedu Esq. This book provides students with a guide on the structure of Legal education in Ghana and how to navigate it. The author provides students with tips on how to approach the study of law through reading, participation in study group discussions and the use of Law Library Facilities.

He again provides students with a brief overview of most of the courses to be undertaken in the initial years of the study of law.

Aside from these great introductory books, there are several other indispensable Ghanaian textbooks a student may want to acquire for an easy navigation through the initial stages of law school in Ghana. Below are some of our top picks:

1. The Law of Contract In Ghana By Christine Dowuona – Hammond.
2. Constitutional Law of Ghana: Evolution, Theory And Practice By Justice Dennis Dominic Adjei
3. Constitutional Law of Ghana: Text Cases and Commentary, Prof. E. Kofi Abotsi.
4. Constitutional Law and History of Ghana Maxwell Opoku–Agyemang
5. The Role of the Supreme Court in the Development of Constitutional Law in Ghana by S. Y Bimpong–Buta
6. The New Constitutional and Administrative Law of Ghana: From the Garden of Eden to 2022 by Prof. Raymond Atuguba
7. Ghana Legal System and Legal Methods by Dr. Ernest Owusu-Dapaa
8. The General Part of Criminal Law by Prof. Henrietta J.A.N Mensah-Bonsu
9. Annotated Criminal and Other Offences Act, 29 by Prof. Prof. Henrietta J.A.N Mensah-Bonsu
10. Essentials of Customary Land Law by Joshua Mbowura and Martin Waana-ang
11. Land Law, Practice and Conveyancing in Ghana by Sir Dennis Dominic Adjei
12. Practical Guide to Law of Torts in Ghana by Martin Waana- ang and Nana Nti Ofori-Debrah
13. Introduction to the Law of Torts in Ghana by Prof. Kofi Kumado
14. Essential Themes in Land Law and Customary Law by Justice Alexander Osei Tutu

These books, once acquired, will complement the 1992 Constitution, various Acts of parliaments, and judicial decisions for a holistic understanding of the legal principles of Ghana’s legal system.

To conclude, we note that mastering the law requires dedication, critical thinking, and access to authoritative resources. The books highlighted in this article provide law students in Ghana with a solid foundation for academic success and professional growth. By engaging with these texts, students will develop a deep understanding of Ghana’s legal framework, cultivate analytical skills, and embark on a path to legal excellence.

Nana Ofori-Debrah, a legal practitioner contributed to this article

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