Legal writing is the “bread and butter” of a lawyer’s practice. Writing well is harder than it looks, though. For years, we've been told that we should "write like Katherine Mansfield". But how?

This workshop will introduce you to three simple hacks to improve your written work: writing concretely; writing actively; and writing less. It builds on the work of linguistic experts, notably Helen Sword and Steven Pinker. But never fear: the words "subordinate clause" will not feature. We’ll also deploy a fourth tool – “point-first advocacy” – to structure arguments for maximum impact. This learn-by-doing workshop will help you achieve writing excellence.

Feedback from previous sessions:

• Very good, clear content and taught informal and engaging way
• Good interactive session
• Organised written materials

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

• Learn the hallmarks of crisp legal writing – concrete, active, brief.
• Understand the common traps that frustrate clear writing.
• Practice editing to write well.
• Develop your skills in “point-first” advocacy.

Who should attend?

All lawyers, but especially those who draft submissions, opinions, or articles.

Facilitator

Andrea Ewing, Crown Counsel, Crown Law Office (Criminal Team)