3.3

Correspondence

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INTRODUCTION

Learn this early: Ask for a form. Even in something as simple as correspondence letters.

The Demand Letter
Every lawyer will have his or her own style of demand letter. You will need to adjust your writing form to his or her preferences.

In this case, simply use the example in the manual to create your own demand letter (unless your instructor has provided you with another example). You may also use the Legal Writing Lab, if you prefer.

Once you have gotten your demand letter back from your instructor, file it in your Client File. Place it in the Correspondence panel, and list it in the index.

The Client Letter
The client letter is simple, but important. You will most likely have much more written contact with clients than the attorney will. The letter should be brief, professional, and to the point.

Once the client letter has been returned by your instructor, file it in your Client File. Place it in the Correspondence panel, and list it in the index.

Don't Forget to Bill Your Time
Remember, always keep track of your billable hours when working for your client. We have said it before, and we will say it again. This is a great opportunity for you to develop a very critical habit: Always keeping accurate track of your billable hours!

Don't think you can just go back and reconstruct the time later. It is very, very easy to spot that. Instead, use copy of the time sheet to keep track. Or even use the Briefcase tool at the bottom of the page for now. But do it!





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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.



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Labs On-Demand

Labs On-Demand
Legal Writing Lab

Click on Legal Writing Lab above for help with this assignment, then select the Demand Letter and Client Letter.





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