Effective Legal Writing

Overview of "Effective Legal Writing" by Nichola Corbett-Jarvis and Brendan Grigg

Publication Details:

• Title: "Effective Legal Writing: A Practical Guide"
• Authors: Nichola Corbett-Jarvis and Brendan Grigg
• Publisher: LexisNexis Butterworths
• Publication Year: 2014 (first edition), 2021 (third edition)
• ISBN: 9780409334029 (print), 9780409334036 (ebook)
• Number of Pages: 223 pages

Key Themes:

1. Introduction to Essential Writing Skills:

   • The book introduces law students to the essential writing skills required in a legal context. It focuses on basic literacy, legal literacy, and writing skills, integrating these into legal content.

2. Plain English Writing Techniques:

   • The authors emphasize the use of plain English to improve readability. They explain how legalese and the practice of creating long-winded legal documents developed, and how students can write with greater clarity.

3. Academic and Professional Legal Writing:

   • The book dedicates sections to academic and professional legal writing. These chapters provide detailed guidance on structuring responses to problem and essay questions, as well as completing professional tasks such as running a file and drafting letters to hypothetical clients.

4. Clarity and Simplicity:

   • A key piece of advice is to keep writing "as simple as possible – but no simpler." This principle helps students avoid unnecessary complexity while still conveying complex legal concepts effectively.

5. Pedagogical Approach:

   • The book is designed as a course book for first-year law students with ongoing relevance as a resource in subsequent years at law school and beyond. It reflects current pedagogical best-practice by fully integrating writing skills into legal content.

Critical Reception:

1. Positive Reviews:

   • The book has been praised for its practical approach to teaching legal writing skills. It is considered a valuable resource for students tackling legal writing tasks for the first time or those looking to brush up on their drafting skills.

2. Usefulness for Students:

   • The detailed chapters on academic and professional legal writing are particularly helpful, making the book well worth the effort for students aiming to improve their writing skills.

3. Complementary Online Materials:

   • The book includes complementary online ancillary materials that present practical exercises to assist students in developing new skills for old problems. This feature is highly regarded for its utility in enhancing student learning.

Conclusion:

"Effective Legal Writing: A Practical Guide" by Nichola Corbett-Jarvis and Brendan Grigg is a comprehensive resource designed to equip law students with the essential writing skills needed in a legal context. Its practical approach, emphasis on plain English, and detailed guidance on academic and professional legal writing make it a valuable tool for students at all stages of their law degree. The book's ongoing relevance and positive reception from educators and students alike solidify its position as a leading textbook in legal writing.