Law Practice Tips

Journaling is a low-cost method for preserving history, promoting productivity and improving well-being. It has been used since ancient times to capture thoughts, keep reminders, and record events. Read on for tips about journaling and resources for starting a diary or journal.  Tips Benefits - journaling can be used to plan cases, keep time, record events, set reminders, and track well-being. Frequency - journalize on a daily, weekly or occasional basis. Other uses include blogging, log-keeping, and expressing emotions and gratitude.  Content  - journaling  can be done as a chronological record or for a free flow of ideas. Device  - select something that you can carry in your bag or pocket. Consider a notebook, planner, smartpad, or smartphones.  Format - Consider putting journal entries in a single column consisting of dates followed by notes.  Other Alternatives - journals are not for everyone. Other alternatives include doodle books, lists, scrapbooks, voice memos, vi

Letter writing is an effective method of communication. Letters are useful for persuading an adversary, explaining complicated issues to a client, and submitting detailed proposals and replies. Letters also work well for personal matters like condolences, congratulations, and thank you’s. Read on for tips for writing professional letters that improve your communications. Electronic vs Paper As a first step, consider whether to send a text message or email since they serve a different purpose than letters. Text messages are best for urgent communications, but they can be intrusive, misplaced, and misunderstood. Emails are less intrusive and work well for short requests, quick updates, and distributing information quickly to a large number of people. Letters are effective for communicating lengthy, complex, or confidential information. Letters must be carefully written since they are held to a higher standard of care than electronic communications. Consider using a hybrid approach of com

Typography can be used to improve the  appearance of words on paper, computer screens, smartphones, and tablets. It makes writing more effective just like good speaking makes oral arguments more persuasive.   Following  are tips to enhance the typographical appearance of  correspondence, pleadings, and other legal documents.  Alignment.  Enhance readability by aligning the left margin and using a jagged edge for the right margin. The first line of paragraphs should be indented to make each paragraph stand out. Consultants . Consider hiring a design consultant to create a style manual and document templates for your firm.  Use a consultant to format high-profile documents like appellate briefs, merger agreements, or stationery.   Drafts.  Print drafts since documents can look different on paper than on computer screens. Review drafts for the appearance of text, fonts, and images.  Consider asking other members of your firm to review documents before they are finalized.  Emphasis . Use i

Note taking promotes listening and learning in the classroom. It can also be used to advance careers. Improve your Note taking by reading articles with tips and guides to better note taking. Considering replacing legal pads with iPads for note-taking

Letter writing is effective for explaining complicated issues and submitting detailed proposals. Letters also work well for personal matters like condolences, congratulations, and thank you’s. Click here for article with tips for writing professional letters that improve your communications.