As a lawyer it is easy to forget that writing is a key aspect of the job. For example you have to be sure that what you write is clear and there are no potential loopholes that could be exploited because you did not properly write up a contract. One way to avoid this is to choose the right legal writing coach.
As with any form of creative talent this does not happen instantly. This is especially the case if you have only recently become legally qualified. You would not expect someone who has just qualified as a teacher to be able to handle every possible situation and the same is true for lawyers and other people in the legal profession.
Furthermore lawyers are often involved with contracts. You need to be sure that a contract is properly written. This can reduce delays in deals as people do not argue over the finer points and that everything is properly clarified before people sign an agreement and are satisfied with the deal.
However it is not just technical detail. A coach can ensure that what you write is written in an interesting and engaging way. This is especially important when writing cases for the prosecution or the defence. You do not necessarily need to make a big grandstanding speech but you should not purely write technical details.
Admittedly this is not as simple as finding a formula. There are no templates that will perfectly fit all areas. In some cases some wording will have to be changed to suit different local areas. A coach with awareness of your local area is more likely to know what people will respond to.
Different coaches will have different levels of experience. Some may have had a long experience working as a lawyer. Others may specialise in certain legal areas. Ideally you want someone that shares your particular area of expertise as they are more likely to be able to work with you and understand your needs.
A good way to do this is to ask previous clients. Ideally the coach should have testimonials you can check. Talk to them directly and ask them whether or not they would recommend their services. This should then make it easier to narrow down the different options as you decide who is reliable and who people recommend. Ideally you want to choose from around three different options and make choice based on their level of experience and qualifications rather than who offers the lowest price for their services.
You can find numerous legal writing coach directories and websites online. It is best to contact at least three as this will allow you to compare the cost of their services and their level of experience. It is also advisable to look them up online and ask for feedback from previous clients to see whether or not they were satisfied with the coaching they received. With the right approach you will find the right one to benefit your legal writing skills.
As with any form of creative talent this does not happen instantly. This is especially the case if you have only recently become legally qualified. You would not expect someone who has just qualified as a teacher to be able to handle every possible situation and the same is true for lawyers and other people in the legal profession.
Furthermore lawyers are often involved with contracts. You need to be sure that a contract is properly written. This can reduce delays in deals as people do not argue over the finer points and that everything is properly clarified before people sign an agreement and are satisfied with the deal.
However it is not just technical detail. A coach can ensure that what you write is written in an interesting and engaging way. This is especially important when writing cases for the prosecution or the defence. You do not necessarily need to make a big grandstanding speech but you should not purely write technical details.
Admittedly this is not as simple as finding a formula. There are no templates that will perfectly fit all areas. In some cases some wording will have to be changed to suit different local areas. A coach with awareness of your local area is more likely to know what people will respond to.
Different coaches will have different levels of experience. Some may have had a long experience working as a lawyer. Others may specialise in certain legal areas. Ideally you want someone that shares your particular area of expertise as they are more likely to be able to work with you and understand your needs.
A good way to do this is to ask previous clients. Ideally the coach should have testimonials you can check. Talk to them directly and ask them whether or not they would recommend their services. This should then make it easier to narrow down the different options as you decide who is reliable and who people recommend. Ideally you want to choose from around three different options and make choice based on their level of experience and qualifications rather than who offers the lowest price for their services.
You can find numerous legal writing coach directories and websites online. It is best to contact at least three as this will allow you to compare the cost of their services and their level of experience. It is also advisable to look them up online and ask for feedback from previous clients to see whether or not they were satisfied with the coaching they received. With the right approach you will find the right one to benefit your legal writing skills.
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