Sounding Like a Lawyer
Illinois Bar Journal, Vol. 82, p. 213, 1994
2 Pages Posted: 25 Mar 2008
Date Written: March 2008
Abstract
The easiest way for a lawyer to impress clients, judges, and colleagues is simply to sound like a lawyer. Choose formal alternatives in lieu of shorter informal words, and use jargon and Latinisms whenever possible. Aim to fill page limits by saying everything twice or two times, and introduce sentences with empty "throat-clearing" clauses. When running low on space, just cite to authority instead of explaining the point you are trying to make. Sounding like a lawyer can be the easiest way to make an impression on your audience.
Keywords: legal writing, language, humor
JEL Classification: K10
Suggested Citation: Suggested Citation