“Wheresoever manners and fashions are corrupted, language is. It imitates the public riot.”

Ben Jonson

To Lord Denning, command of the language was the key to success for any lawyer. However, surprisingly, many lawyers are not good communicators.

This module teaches delegates the fundamentals of clear and simple language; the rules which apply to witness statements and statements of case; and the importance of linking principles of persuasion to legal drafting.

The topics covered

•          Understanding and applying the principles of effective writing;

•          Redrafting writing which is poorly expressed;

•          Preparing a letter of claim;

•          Understanding the link between written and oral advocacy;

•          Examining the appropriate CPR rules and practice directions;

•          Understanding the principles of drafting statements of case (contract and tort claims);

•          Drafting defences and counterclaims;

•          Analysing an opponent’s statement of case;

•          Statements of truth (Part 22);

•          Understanding the principles of drafting witness statements;

•          Service of proceedings; and

•          Service out of the jurisdiction.