Legal Writing

Grammar Girl explains proper pronoun use when dealing with a corporation.
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This Wall Street Journal blog post illustrates why plain language is necessary for effective communication. You have failed to communicate if you client, judge, opposing counsel, clerk, associate, or causal reader needs to use a dictionary to understand what you have written. Such a verbose style makes reading a chore and understanding a questionable...
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For those looking to improve their legal writing there is no better source than Bryan Garner. I recommend legal writers view all the videos provided on his website. The interrogated range from Supreme Court justices to practicing lawyers and writers.
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Really! Grammar can be fun. Just check out these blogs if you don’t believe me. http://www.unnecessaryquotes.com/ http://www.apostropheabuse.com/ HT: Raymond Ward
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One of the key components to a good case is a theme. The theme should speak to the judge or jury. It does not need to be long or complicated, a simple sentence works best. For example, everyone remembers Johnnie Cochran’s “if it doesn’t fit, you must acquit.” If you are not creative, or...
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Douglas Linder at the University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law has created a webpage of famous trials. It contains transcripts, biographies, and other information. The earliest trial included is that of Socrates (399 B.C.). The most recent trial covered is the prosecution of Moussauri in 2006. It is a great source...
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Here is a helpful guide to writing persuasively. Chief Justice John Robert’s is well known for his great advocacy skills. In this guide, Ross Guberman provides five great tips based on Hon. Robert’s use of language that will improve your legal writing.
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Andrew L. Frey and Roy T. Englert, Jr. have written a very informative article on preparing appellate briefs. I recommend it to you. How to Write a Good Appellate Brief
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