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🦹intro to law and legal process review

Conclusion and Recommendations

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Conclusion and recommendations refer to the final section of a legal memorandum or brief that summarizes the key findings and suggests specific actions or decisions based on those findings. This section is crucial as it distills complex legal analysis into clear, actionable insights, guiding the reader on how to proceed based on the law and facts presented.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The conclusion synthesizes the main points of the legal analysis while providing a definitive stance on the issues discussed.
  2. Recommendations offer specific actions for the client or decision-maker, helping to guide future conduct or legal strategy.
  3. This section should be written clearly and concisely to ensure that readers can easily grasp the essence of the arguments without getting lost in legal jargon.
  4. In drafting this section, it's important to connect conclusions directly to the legal precedents and statutes discussed in the memo or brief.
  5. A strong conclusion and recommendations section can significantly impact decision-making by providing clarity and direction.

Review Questions

  • How does the conclusion of a legal memorandum or brief support the overall argument presented?
    • The conclusion supports the overall argument by summarizing the key findings from the legal analysis and reaffirming how those findings align with the client's objectives. It distills complex information into a straightforward summary, making it easier for readers to understand the implications of the arguments. Additionally, by tying back to the facts and legal principles discussed earlier, it reinforces the validity of the arguments made throughout the document.
  • What role do recommendations play in a legal memorandum or brief, and why are they important for decision-makers?
    • Recommendations play a critical role in guiding decision-makers by providing specific courses of action based on the legal analysis. They are important because they translate complex legal conclusions into practical steps that clients or stakeholders can take. Well-crafted recommendations help ensure that clients understand not only what the law says but also how it applies to their unique situation, ultimately supporting informed decision-making.
  • Evaluate how effective conclusions and recommendations can influence case outcomes in litigation or negotiations.
    • Effective conclusions and recommendations can greatly influence case outcomes by shaping how arguments are perceived by judges, juries, or negotiating parties. A well-reasoned conclusion backed by solid legal principles can instill confidence in decision-makers about the merits of a case, potentially swaying their opinions. Additionally, clear recommendations can facilitate strategic planning in negotiations or litigation by outlining actionable steps, thus enhancing the likelihood of achieving desired results. Ultimately, this clarity can be decisive in critical moments where choices must be made based on legal analysis.