I know this is redundant, but can I get some opinions on whether or not to submit an optional essay if not asked to do so. I know it is always "possible" to submit one, but is it always a good idea if not specifically asked to do so?

If the application form invites an you to submit an "optional" essay, then failing to do so signals that you don't care enough about the school to write an essay. The only thing worse than that would be writing an essay that sucks.

I agree, if given an opportunity to have an edge why not take it? Let's say there's 10 applicants and 9 out of the 10 do the essay how does that look? The essay is the only thing that sets applicants apart.

Oh yea, for sure. But I was reading some people say that if you DON'T get asked to write one, then don't. There reasoning was something along the lines of it is a bad idea because if they don't ask for it, admission people don't want to have to read it. And, to add to that, if you get waitlisted you can send in the "Why University of..." essay. I feel like those are valid points at best. I'm just leaning toward writing one even if not asked to. Thoughts?

If a school gives you the opportunity to, I would take it, especially if your numbers are marginal.

If they are really good for the school, I might skip it.

Have you seen this site?

http://appreqs.com/lawschool/

It breaks down optional and required essays and gives the prompts.

+1

An essay that comes out overly-contrived could hurt your application more than help. It's the same mindset that goes into avoiding mediocre LOR.

However, there are a few schools that it is fairly well known you should at least try to come up with an essay that sounds good (Michigan, Penn, UVA, for instance - I don't know your numbers or what schools you are specifically looking at). If a school asks for an optional essay, I would try to write one, then give it to a few people to read and see if they think it works.

If a school doesn't ask for one but you have a particularly good diversity statement or "Why X?" essay to write then go for it. But it better be pretty good.

Wow. I just noticed that the "optional essay" (i.e. the not-personal-statement essay) is required for UPenn. The application states "Please also choose at least one but no more than three of the essay topics outlined below..."

Damn, I was hoping to get away with not writing one.

Unless you have crazy good stats... you want to.