Don’t Write “Despite the Fact That.”
Dear Legal Writer, Don’t write “Despite the fact that.” It is the most debilitating…
The Current Entry-Level Job Market
In April 1991, I was a senior at Harvard—just one month from graduating. But…
How I Add Creativity to My Legal Writing
How I add creativity to my legal writing— (AND make it more persuasive). 3…
Don’t Lose Points on Law School Exam Essays With This 10-Step Plan
Dear 1L, Follow this 10-Step Plan so you don’t lose points on your law…
The Best Briefs Contain No Unnecessary Words
Dear Legal Writer, The best briefs contain no unnecessary words. To that end, check…
Continuing in Fields of “Law” in Uncertain Times
This post from a law student stopped me in my tracks. It took me…
A Special Easter Gift
This means so much to me. A mom with a pre-law student sent this…
Oral Argument Superpowers
I am married to someone for whom oral argument is a superpower. So here…
2025 | Dear 1L | Legal Writing
A Legal Brief Should Be Evergreen
Dear 1L, A legal brief should be evergreen. “Evergreen” is a term you might…
Let’s Get “i.e.” and “e.g.” Straight, Shall We?
Dear Legal Writer: Let’s get “i.e.” and “e.g.” straight, shall we? I.e. and e.g….
7 Things to Do the Summer Before Law School
When I started helping law students 4 years ago I tried to read everything…
Shape Up Your Use of “This” and “That”!
Dear Legal Writer, Shape up your use of “this” and “that”! Stop switching back…