Legal Writing Coach

1. Tone
1.1 Formality factors
1.2 Tone devices
2. Usage
2.1 Punctuation: Common errors
2.2 Grammar: Common errors
2.3 Vocabulary: Common errors
2.4 Usage: Conclusion
3. Style
3.1 Style step 1: Cut words
3.2 Style step 2: Simplify sentences
3.3 Style step 3: Refine style
4. Structuring
4.1 Structuring question 1: Is the structure logical overall?
4.2 Structuring question 2: Does it make sense to follow “ICRA”?
4.2.1 What is ICRA?
4.2.2 Make ICRA your servant
4.2.3 ICRA in long documents (memoranda, etc.)
4.3 Structuring ques0on 3: Do I have enough navigation aids?
5. Drafting/Presenting Legal Rules
Annexes
Annex A: Salutations, Titles, Closings
Annex B: Punctuating complex and compound sentences
Annex C: Common vocabulary errors
Annex D: Common preposition errors
Annex E: British v American legal usage
Annex F: Sample edit sheet
Annex G: Help from Microsoft Word
Annex H: Word replacement list
Annex I: Common throat-clearing phrases
Annex J: Common redundancies
Annex K: Common “of” constructions
Annex L: Common compound prepositions
Annex M: Common vague words
Annex N: Common inflated words
Annex O: Facts that speak for themselves
Annex P: Common nominalizations
Annex Q: Sample office memorandum
Annex R: Effective headings
Annex S: Paragraphs
Annex T: Helpful transition words
Annex U: Transitioning – good and bad
Annex V: Rules for quoting
Annex W: Approaching a new writing project
Annex X: Answers to 20 frequently asked questions
Annex Y: Practice exercises with answers