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Difference between revisions of "Clicklaw Wikibooks Style Guide"
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Clicklaw Wikibooks Style Guide (view source)
Revision as of 00:04, 15 November 2016
, 00:04, 15 November 2016no edit summary
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== Word usage == | == Word usage == | ||
====Plain language tips==== | |||
We are writing with the public reader in mind, not lawyers or other legal advocates. Depending on the wikibook, you may need to aim for a low reading level. [[Legal Help for British Columbians]] serves very basic information so people can take the first step towards finding help for their common legal problem. [[JP Boyd on Family Law]] presumes a higher reading level, since it offers motivated self-represented individuals a slightly more detailed description of family law. Both groups of readers benefit from plain language writing methods. | |||
Some tips to consider when writing or reviewing legal information for the public: | |||
# Think about your reader and question what they know or don't know. | |||
# Think about questions your readers will have on the topic, and organize your thoughts accordingly. | |||
# Summarize main points using headers. | |||
# Organize steps or similar information with lists. | |||
# Write brief sentences and keep paragraphs short. | |||
# Use common phrases and words. | |||
# Avoid unnecessary descriptive adverbs and words. | |||
# Write in the active voice and keep verb and subject close together. | |||
# Ask another reader to evaluate your writing. | |||
====More on plain language writing==== | |||
* [http://www.cba.org/cba/practicelink/cs/plainlanguage1.aspx CBA PracticeLink: Plain language legal writing] | |||
* [http://www.plainlanguage.gov/examples/before_after/index.cfm Before and After Comparisons from www.plainlanguage.gov] | |||
* [http://www.plainlanguage.gov/whatisPL/definitions/Kimble.cfm Joe Kimble, ''The Elements of Plain Language'' in the ''Michigan Bar Journal'', October 2002] | |||
===Avoiding legalese=== | ===Avoiding legalese=== | ||
Avoid using legalese. These words and expressions are to be avoided: | Avoid using legalese. These words and expressions are to be avoided: | ||