Legal writing has changed since the 1990s when I started.
🔹 Old, obsolete way:
-Use complex words non-lawyers won’t know.
-Use no charts, timelines, or photographs.
-Add emphasis with boldface and italics.
-Write in Times New Roman font.
-Use acronyms for party names.
-Use footnotes to save space.
-Maximize use of legalese.
🔹 New, better way:
-Use simple words a grade school student will know.
-Add ample charts, timelines, and photographs.
-Add emphasis with punctuation & placement.
-Use Century Schoolbook or comparable.
-Use true double space to save space.
-Spell out party names.
-Minimize legalese.
Get on the 2024, plain-language bandwagon and start becoming a more persuasive legal writer.
Why not start today?
💌 Amanda
P.S. What changes in legal writing have I missed?