Legal writing - 1

Question 1

Skills?

Answer 1

Case and matter analysis
Legal research
Legal writing
Legal drafting

Question 2

Key points

Answer 2

Succint
Clarity
Good grammar and spelling

Check who is receiving to tailor

Avoid jargon and legalese unless they may know it.

Avoid unnecessary acronyms

Tautology avoid (saying same word twice).

Use active voice where possible
‘will’ ‘was’

Inclusive language

Question 3

Formatting

Answer 3

Check legal requirements

Paragraphs

Bullet points

Sub-headings

Numbering

Tabulation (a) (b) (c)

Question 4

Letters

Answer 4

Template

Recipient
Name
Address

Main heading
Introductory paragraph

Sub-heading
(Facts)

Sub-heading
First issue

Sub-heading
Second issue

Sub-heading
(summary)

Sub-heading
Next steps/action points

Closing

Yours sincerely/faithfully

Question 5

Emails

Answer 5

Dear Recipient

Sub-Heading

Sub-Heading

Yours Sincerely