Bachelor of Laws: Legal Writing & Drafting
Prescribed Text
Textbooks
Legal Writing & Drafting
Plain english is straightforward, concise language that is appropriate for the intended audience. This usually involves avoiding complex or verbose language, obscure terms, and jargon. It may also involve simplifying the structure and syntax of a document or communication to make it more accessible to its audience. Also known as 'plain language'.
(Encyclopaedic Australian Legal Dictionary, 2016)
Lawyers Practice Manual - Victoria
The Lawyers Practice Manual Victoria is a narrative guide to the practice and procedure of law in Victoria.
The manual includes step-by-step guidance with an overview of the law relevant to each distinct area of practice that is covered. The manual is narrative in style, and is designed so that each chapter covers a separate legal task.
The manual contains practical hints, precedents, letters and standard forms.
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Interviewing and letter writingHow to take complete instructions; Working with interpreters; Indigenous clients; Writing letters; Letters for specific situations
Australian Encyclopaedia of Forms & Precedents
The Australian Encyclopaedia of Forms & Precedents is a comprehensive source of forms and precedents. This reference work comprises over 6,000 non-litigious legal forms and precedent documents in over 60 legal subject areas, covering all Australian jurisdictions.
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Drafting Techniques ChapterThis guide was adapted from the title “Drafting Techniques” by Ros McDonald. This version was edited in line with the principles in Neil James, Writing at Work: How to Write Clearly, Effectively and Professionally (Allen and Unwin, 2007).
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Plain English Drafting GuideIntroduction; Planning your content; Structuring effectively; Using clear, concise language; Drafting for consistency; Finalising your text
Legal Writing & Drafting Resources
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Australian Encyclopaedia of Forms & Precedents - Lexis AdvanceContains over 4,000 legal forms and precedents covering 93 areas of law. Precedents are drafted in plain English, by experienced practitioners. Introductory notes explain the purpose of individual forms, precedents and clauses, and indicate where and when each should be used.
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Clear and Precise: Writing Skills for Today's Lawyer Scope Information - NEWMany students begin a law course believing "real" lawyers write in legalese. Clear and precise Writing Skills for Today's Lawyer, encourages law students and lawyers to use plain English techniques in the language, structure, content, style, and presentation of their writing.
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Court Forms, Precedents and Pleadings, Victoria - Lexis AdvanceDesigned to guide practitioners through the process of preparing and filing of documents in the Victorian court system – from the Magistrates Court to the County Court and the Supreme Court. The forms, precedents and pleadings are accompanied by expert commentary.
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Lawyers Practice Manual - Westlaw AustraliaA procedural guide which deals with the everyday questions of legal practice and procedure.
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Ross on Crime (Legal Writing) - Westlaw AustraliaPractical advice on style and grammar.
Journals in Print and Online
AGIS (Attorney Generals Information Service) - is the leading legal journals database in Australia. Use AGIS to search hundreds of journals for articles about Legal Writing & Drafting.
If you wish to browse, then the journals below may be useful places to start.