Beyond the Rules: Creating Great Writers - Not Just Legal Writers

Canadian Law Library Review, Vol. 39, Spring 2014

3 Pages Posted: 4 Dec 2013 Last revised: 24 May 2014

See all articles by Adam Lamparello

Adam Lamparello

Georgia College and State University; Assistant Professor of Public Law

Charles MacLean

Metropolitan State University School of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice

Date Written: December 3, 2013

Abstract

We’ve all heard and taught the rules. Be concise, organized, compelling, logical, and theme-driven. Avoid legalese, repetition, overly long sentences, esoteric words, and grammar and spelling errors. These rules are indispensable components of effective legal writing. But tomorrow’s Legal Research and Writing (Lawyering Skills) programs must prepare students to be great writers, not just legal writers – to be artists, not just artisans. At its core, legal writing is no different from other types of writing. Thus, legal writing programs should incorporate the following five skills that great writers of all genres and styles embrace before penning the first words of a novel, poem, and, yes, a legal document.

Keywords: Legal Writing, Lawyering Skills

Suggested Citation

Lamparello, Adam and Lamparello, Adam and MacLean, Charles, Beyond the Rules: Creating Great Writers - Not Just Legal Writers (December 3, 2013). Canadian Law Library Review, Vol. 39, Spring 2014, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2363128

Adam Lamparello

Georgia College and State University ( email )

Milledgeville, GA 31061-0490
United States

Assistant Professor of Public Law ( email )

Charles MacLean (Contact Author)

Metropolitan State University School of Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice ( email )

700 East Seventh Street
St. Paul, MN 55106
United States

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