WRITING FOR THE CORRECT AUDIENCE
Perhaps the most important tip for paralegals is that you need to carefully consider your audience. The tone and voice of a communication to an attorney in your office will likely be quite different from the tone used in a client letter or document filed with the court. Writing for clients, opposing counsel or the court will typically be more formal than interoffice communications, but should still come across as professional.
When keeping your audience in mind as you write, the result is a document or communication that shows readers the respect they deserve, one that conveys information clearly and succinctly.
While pursuing your associate degree in paralegal studies, be sure to adhere to your instructor’s requirements for written assignments and seek to learn from critiques and guidance.
UNDERSTANDING WHEN TO USE PASSIVE AND ACTIVE VOICES
Most of the time, use “active” voice in your legal writing, as it can be a powerful way to convey your message and engage your reader. However, there are also communications where you should consider using passive voice.
Passive voice can be an effective way to tell a story and include necessary information without drawing too much focus to that information.
USING THE ‘SANDWICH’ METHOD OF WRITING
The “sandwich” method in general business communications refers to a writing technique where the writer includes a warm introduction with a compliment, followed by one or two constructive criticisms, followed by a complimentary, warm closing. In this way, the critical statements are sandwiched between compliments.
In the context of legal writing, the sandwich method is used when you want to minimize certain information. Your writing may include an introduction in active voice alleging that the other side did or didn’t do something, followed by facts about your client in passive voice. At the end of the writing, include another active voice statement about the other party. This technique can be effective in guiding the reader’s attention where you want.
KEEP IT SHORT (AND SIMPLE)
Try to be concise with your legal writing, using wording and phrasing that is to the point and clear. After finishing the first draft, review it with a critical eye. Does every word make sense, and is every word necessary to get your meaning across? If not, edit away.
Consider also the language you choose. When you’re writing letters, responses, motions or other legal materials, it can be tempting to fall back on the legalese and industry jargon with which you are familiar. Resist that temptation. Writing in plain English can ensure the message is clear and unambiguous.
Learning and consciously improving your legal writing skills can help you achieve greater success in your career as a paralegal, showing employers you have the professionalism and skill set they expect from legal professionals.
Paralegal studies degree-seeking students at Generations College in Chicago will have the opportunity to practice and polish their writing skills throughout their college experience.
Please note that paralegals may not practice law or otherwise provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law.
To learn more about how our paralegal studies degree program can help you reach your career goals, call (312) 922-1884 or contact us online.