In an effort to promote professionalism among Ohio’s attorneys and judges, the Supreme Court of Ohio Commission on Professionalism has released the sixth edition of best practices publications titled Professionalism Dos and Don’ts. The series of Dos and Don’ts includes suggested guidelines for judicial and attorney conduct. Today the commission released the Professionalism Dos and Don’ts: Legal Writing, which outlines best practices of written communication in a legal setting.

The commission does not regulate conduct or discipline, but Commission on Professionalism Secretary Lori Keating said the publications help practicing attorneys, judges, and law school students understand and meet professionalism standards by suggesting guidelines.

“Legal writing is an essential part of legal practice,” Keating said. “Attorneys rely upon the written word to communicate with clients, opposing counsel, and the courts. Effective legal writing is well-researched and organized, logical, and respectful in tone.”

Some of the Dos of legal writing include:

• Provide a consistent and coherent argument.
• Present an honest and accurate position.
• Provide appropriate signposts.

 Some of the Don’ts include:

• Make a reader’s job more difficult.
• Make inappropriate comments.
• Mischaracterize a lawyer’s position.

View the complete list of Professionalism Dos and Don’ts: Legal Writing.

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