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
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: Suggested Citation