3.1

The Unified Theory of Legal Writing

• Segment ProgressBar



INTRODUCTION

Take this section of the manual to heart. You don't have to recreate the wheel. Use existing authority (forms, templates, examples) to create new documents.

For this class, make sure you utilize the Legal Writing Labs. They will make your life a whole lot easier, and will help you develop your writing skills more efficiently, and effectively. The Writing Labs may be used for all writing assignments. Just select the Writing Labs link in the top menu.











---





Lecture Notes . . .

USING PREVIOUSLY CREATED DOCUMENTS
You will see us refer to this concept throughout the program. Use templates, forms, form books, online forms, examples from your attorney, or even examples you find using Google searches! The point is, let previously created documents do the work for you.



---

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly Time Sheets




You are required to keep track of your billable hours when working on legal research and writing assignments and to turn them in with your written assignments. Click on the examples of Time Sheets below to zoom in and compare. Yours should look like the Good example.





The Good

Notice the accurate hours and the detailed descriptions.



The Bad

Not a very accurate time sheet. Very little attention to detail.



The Ugly

Obviously created after-the-fact. Don't let your time sheet look like this!

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD A TIME SHEET that automatically adds up your billable hours. You should keep track of any research or writing you perform on behalf of your client, including training exercises and assignments in this program.