Legal Writing Grammar Rules to Know for Legal Method and Writing

Effective legal writing relies on clear grammar rules that enhance communication. By using active voice, avoiding jargon, and maintaining proper punctuation, you can create concise, accessible documents that resonate with readers and uphold professional standards in legal method and writing.

1. Use active voice instead of passive voice

   • Active voice makes sentences clearer and more direct.
   • It emphasizes the subject performing the action, enhancing readability.
   • Example: "The attorney filed the motion" is stronger than "The motion was filed by the attorney."

2. Avoid legalese and unnecessary jargon

   • Legalese can confuse readers and obscure meaning.
   • Use straightforward language that is accessible to a broader audience.
   • Simplifying terms helps ensure clarity and understanding.

3. Write in plain English and use clear, concise language

   • Aim for brevity without sacrificing meaning.
   • Avoid convoluted sentences that may confuse the reader.
   • Clear language enhances communication and comprehension.

4. Use proper punctuation, especially with commas and semicolons

   • Correct punctuation clarifies meaning and improves flow.
   • Commas can separate items in a list or clauses in a sentence.
   • Semicolons link closely related ideas and can replace conjunctions.

5. Maintain parallel structure in lists and series

   • Parallel structure ensures consistency and clarity in writing.
   • Use the same grammatical form for items in a list.
   • This technique enhances readability and comprehension.

6. Use gender-neutral language

   • Gender-neutral terms promote inclusivity and avoid bias.
   • Replace gendered pronouns with neutral alternatives when possible.
   • This practice reflects modern values and respects diversity.

7. Avoid nominalizations (turning verbs into nouns)

   • Nominalizations can make writing less direct and more complex.
   • Use verbs instead of nouns to convey action clearly.
   • Example: "Decide" is stronger than "make a decision."

8. Use consistent tense throughout a document

   • Consistent tense helps maintain clarity and coherence.
   • Avoid shifting between past, present, and future unnecessarily.
   • This practice aids in following the narrative or argument.

9. Properly cite legal authorities

   • Accurate citations lend credibility to your writing.
   • Follow the appropriate citation style for legal documents.
   • Proper citations allow readers to verify sources and references.

10. Avoid run-on sentences and sentence fragments

    • Run-on sentences can confuse readers and obscure meaning.
    • Ensure each sentence expresses a complete thought.
    • Use punctuation to separate distinct ideas clearly.

11. Use proper capitalization for legal terms and titles

    • Capitalization helps distinguish specific legal terms and titles.
    • Follow standard conventions for proper nouns and titles.
    • This practice enhances professionalism and clarity.

12. Employ correct subject-verb agreement

    • Ensure subjects and verbs agree in number and person.
    • This rule is fundamental for grammatical accuracy.
    • Incorrect agreement can lead to confusion and misinterpretation.

13. Use pronouns correctly and avoid ambiguous pronoun references

    • Clear pronoun references prevent confusion about who or what is being discussed.
    • Ensure pronouns agree in number and gender with their antecedents.
    • Avoid vague references that could mislead the reader.

14. Properly format numbers and dates in legal writing

    • Consistent formatting enhances clarity and professionalism.
    • Follow legal conventions for writing numbers (e.g., numerals vs. words).
    • Use standard formats for dates to avoid ambiguity.

15. Use appropriate transition words and phrases

    • Transition words guide readers through your argument or narrative.
    • They help connect ideas and improve the flow of writing.
    • Effective transitions enhance coherence and understanding.