A GC's writing advice

 

The Recorder has Adam Kaplan's All I Really Need To Know About Legal Writing I Learned in My Ninth Circuit Clerkship about "four principles I learned from The Judge [Pam Rymer] and that all lawyers would do well to follow."

1. Never Bury the Lead

The first paragraph of a news story is the “lead”—or “lede,” in journalistic jargon. Conventional wisdom holds that it should grab the reader’s attention and highlight the main points .... Strong legal writing tells the punchline up front.

2. Write Clearly

Make sure the reader understands what you mean to convey. .... Legal writing should get the intended points across with the least amount of work for the reader. .... the reader should not have to re-read a paragraph or sentence because the writing is confusing or overly complex—or because there’s incorrect grammar, pretentious words, typos or other distractions.

3. Write Succinctly

People tend to have short attention spans and a lot to read. Respect their time and keep your writing as short as possible while conveying the necessary information.

4. Engage Your Reader

• Figure out the story you have to tell before you write the first word. It’s tough to write, let alone write well, when you don’t know what you’re trying to say. Then, tell a story. People inherently connect with stories.
• Unless formality is required, write conversationally, as if you’re speaking with the reader.
• Have some fun with your writing. If you’re having fun, there’s a better chance the reader will too. You can do this by employing a strategic theme, using wit or humor (though tread carefully), or finding other ways to be less rigid and formal.