Legal Writer: 40 Rules for the Art of Legal Writing

by Mark P. Painter

The Legal Writer 3rd Edition: 40 Rules for the Art of Legal Writing, by Judge Painter promotes the use plain English by lawyers with their colleagues and clients. The 3rd edition is published in cooperation with Casemaker Print Publishing® and Jarndyce & Jarndyce Press. “Cases are about people. Shouldn't they be able to read what is happening to them?” Judge Painter asks in his seminars. In The Legal Writer, he expands on that theme, and offers 40 rules for lawyers to follow in changing their writing style. The book shows lawyers and judges how to write shorter sentences, shorter paragraphs, purge legal jargon, and write in plain language. “It’s all about communicating,” said Heather G. Sowald, president of the 29,000-member Ohio State Bar Association. “The new edition of Judge Painter’s book serves as a good desk reference for attorneys who want to better communicate with their colleagues and clients.”

144 pages, Perfect Paperback

First published September 1, 2003

Reviews

[Sue Painter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent manual for newbies and veterans in the legal profession.