English is the dominant language of international business relations, and a good working knowledge of the language is essential for today’s legal or business professional. Legal English provides a highly practical approach to the use of English in commercial legal contexts, and covers crucial law terminology and legal concepts. Written with the needs of both students and practitioners in mind, this book is particularly suitable for readers whose first language is not English but need to use English on a regular basis in legal contexts. The book covers both written and oral legal communication in typical legal situations in a straightforward manner. As well as including chapters on grammar and punctuation for legal writing, the book features sections on contract-drafting, language for negotiation, meetings and telephone conversations. This edition contains additional troubleshooting tips for legal writing, guidance on good style, and new sections on writing law essays and applying for legal positions.
PART ONE: WRITTEN ENGLISH
Chapter 1: Introduction to Legal English
Chapter 2: Grammar for Legal Writing
Chapter 3: Punctuation for Legal Writing
Chapter 4: Sentence Structure
Chapter 5: Legal Writing Standards: Dates, Numbers, Citations & Headings
Chapter 6: Terminology & Linguistic Peculiarities
Chapter 7: Elements of Good Style: Clarity, Consistency, Effectiveness;
Chapter 8: What to Avoid
Chapter 9: British & American English
Chapter 10: Contracts: Structure & Interpretation
Chapter 11: Contract Clauses: Types & Specimen Clauses
Chapter 12: Drafting Legal Documents: Language & Structure
Chapter 13: Correspondence, Memoranda & Essays
Chapter 14: Applying for a Legal Position
Chapter 15: Self-Study Exercises
PART TWO: SPOKEN ENGLISH
Chapter 16: Aspects of Spoken English
Chapter 17: Meeting, Greeting & Getting Down to Business
Chapter 18: Interviewing and Advising
Chapter 19: Dealing with Difficult People: Ten-Point Guide
Chapter 20: Court Advocacy
Chapter 21: Negotiation
Chapter 22: Chairing a Formal Meeting
Chapter 23: Making a Presentation
Chapter 24: Telephoning
Glossaries
Answer Key
About the Author
