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Elegant Legal Writing helps attorneys elevate their writing from passable to polished. Drawing on ideas from cognitive science, stylistics, and litigation strategy, the book teaches practical techniques by example using fast-paced chapters. Readers will learn the essentials of effective legal composition:
Readability, aesthetics, and argumentation are intertwined. Ryan McCarl shows how litigation documents that are easier and more pleasant to read are more likely to persuade judges and other busy readers. The book also discusses parts of legal writing that many guides overlook, including sentence mechanics, writing technology, and typography.
- Writing clear, efficient prose
- Crafting strong arguments
- Telling a client's story through a compelling narrative
- Overcoming procrastination and drafting more productively
Readability, aesthetics, and argumentation are intertwined. Ryan McCarl shows how litigation documents that are easier and more pleasant to read are more likely to persuade judges and other busy readers. The book also discusses parts of legal writing that many guides overlook, including sentence mechanics, writing technology, and typography.
Price: $85.00
Pages: 224
Publisher: University of California Press
Imprint: University of California Press
Publication Date:
06 February 2024
Trim Size: 9.00 X 6.00 in
ISBN: 9780520395787
Format: Hardcover
BISACs:
Ryan McCarl is a founding partner at Rushing McCarl LLP and an adjunct professor at Loyola Law School. Previously, he was a research fellow in AI law and policy at UCLA School of Law, where he designed and taught a course on advanced legal writing. He has given talks about litigation writing, motion strategy, and appellate advocacy to audiences that include the American Bar Association Litigation Section and the Texas Office of the Attorney General.
Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction
PART I STYLE
1. Core Principles of Legal Writing
2. Concision
3. Plain Language
4. Strong Sentences
5. Organization and Cohesion
6. Tone and Professionalism
PART II SUBSTANCE
7. Briefs and Motions
8. Using Legal Authority
9. Legal Storytelling
PART III PROCESS
10. The Mental Game of Writing
11. Writing with Technology
12. Document Design
Notes
Other Resources
Index
Acknowledgments
Introduction
PART I STYLE
1. Core Principles of Legal Writing
2. Concision
3. Plain Language
4. Strong Sentences
5. Organization and Cohesion
6. Tone and Professionalism
PART II SUBSTANCE
7. Briefs and Motions
8. Using Legal Authority
9. Legal Storytelling
PART III PROCESS
10. The Mental Game of Writing
11. Writing with Technology
12. Document Design
Notes
Other Resources
Index