Advanced Legal Communication

P R O G R A M M E O U T L I N E

Unit 1: Legal Writing as Persuasive Writing

• Learn the art of persuasion and techniques for developing and structuring a persuasive argument.

• Study how to identify and frame issues effectively.

Unit 2: Drafting Contracts

• Explore the fundamental aspects of successful contract drafting.

• Identify the essential elements required in all valid, legally-binding contracts.

Unit 3: Writing a Memo

• Master the use of a memo-format for writing up research and analysing legal problems and issues.

• Develop important skills such as issue identification and summarising.

Unit 4: Writing Pleadings

• Draft proper and effective pleadings by harnessing the format to your advantage.

• Study the accepted structure and content of pleadings.

Unit 5: Writing a Legal Opinion

• Learn the style and elements of a legal opinion.

• Develop your skills in both assessing a case and communicating with your clients and colleagues.

Unit 6: Fundamentals of Oral Communication

• Explore the different kinds of speaking that lawyers do.

• Study the importance of preparation and structure when speaking.

Unit 7: Oral Advocacy

• Learn the fundamental aspects of oral advocacy.

• Analyse the importance of acting ethically at all times, and how to build a solid professional reputation.

Unit 8: Making Presentations

• Study how to speak to a group, and make a presentation.

• Learn how to structure presentations, successfully engage the audience, and use visual aids.

Unit 9: Attending and Conducting Interviews

• Learn the ins and outs of interviews—as either the interviewer, or the interviewee.

• Learn to plan and think about the purpose of an interview before commencing.

• Study valuable interview techniques for both listening and questioning.

Unit 10: Conducting Negotiations

• Learn to determine when it’s suitable to negotiate, and how to prepare for an effective negotiation.

• Study how to conduct a negotiation, including the ethical considerations involved.