Tools of the Trade

Tools of the Trade introduces the law student and newly practicing attorney to the fundamental legal writing tools at their disposal. The book is organized progressively to parallel the sequence of events that occurs in an actual case. The first several chapters cover some basic rules on the practice of law and initial client contact/correspondence such as retainer agreements. The next chapters advance to cover subjects such as demand letters, pleadings, discovery, and motions. The final three chapters conclude with less formal documents such as praecipes and letters of transmittal in addition to settlement documents and billing statements. Each individual chapter contains text explaining the basic elements, form, and use of the instruments, along with practical tips for drafting. The chapters then set forth several samples (not forms) so the reader is able to appreciate the appearance, construction, language and variations of the instrument.