Plain language drafting – It just makes sense

In recent years, there has been a growing movement among legal professionals to embrace plain language drafting, which emphasises clarity, simplicity, and accessibility.

Plain language drafting – It just makes sense

Lawyers are trained to think and communicate in a highly technical and precise manner, but this can make it difficult for clients and other non-lawyers to understand the legal documents they create. In recent years, there has been a growing movement among legal professionals to embrace plain language drafting, which emphasises clarity, simplicity, and accessibility.

Here are a few reasons why lawyers should consider making plain language drafting a priority in their practice:

Improved communication:

Plain language drafting allows lawyers to communicate more effectively with their clients and other non-lawyers. Using clear, simple language ensures the intended meaning is understood by all parties involved. This can lead to more efficient and effective communication, helping to avoid misunderstandings and disputes.

Increased accessibility:

Plain language drafting makes legal documents more accessible to people who may not have a legal background. This includes clients and other non-lawyers who are not familiar with legal jargon and terminology. The use of plain language can ensure that documents are easily understood by everyone involved in the legal process.

Enhanced client satisfaction:

Clients appreciate it when they understand what is happening in their legal matter. Plain language legal documents help clients feel more informed and involved in the process. This can lead to increased trust and satisfaction with the legal services provided.

Refined efficiency:

Plain language drafting can help lawyers work more efficiently by reducing the need for clarification and revision. Legal documents that are easy to understand mean errors are less likely and less time will be spent fixing them. This saves time and money for both lawyer and client.

Better legal outcomes:

Clear and easy-to-understand legal documents can lead to better legal outcomes. When everyone involved in a legal matter understands the terms and conditions, it is less likely that disputes will arise and more likely that parties will be able to reach a fair and just resolution.

Plain language drafting is important for lawyers in today's legal landscape. By embracing plain language drafting, lawyers can improve communication, increase accessibility, enhance client satisfaction, work more efficiently, and ultimately achieve better legal outcomes.

By Lawyers has a strong commitment to plain language drafting ensuring all our publications and legal materials are written in a clear and easily understood manner.

Why not check out one of our up to date and easy to understand publications today?

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