Legal Writing and Practical Legal Skills
Structure of legal documents
Every legal document should be clear, structured, and persuasive. Standard components: heading and parties, statement of facts, legal issues, applicable law, argument, and prayer for relief (or operative part). Use numbered paragraphs, defined terms, and consistent citations.
Drafting technique
- State facts chronologically and precisely; avoid adjectives.
- Identify the legal issue in one sentence.
- Cite the governing norm (Constitution, code, statute) and, where relevant, cassation practice.
- Apply law to facts in a structured IRAC pattern.
- End with a specific, executable request.
Legal analysis (IRAC)
Issue – frame the question. Rule – state the applicable norm. Application – connect facts to rule. Conclusion – answer the question. This structure is expected in exam answers and in written pleadings.
Oral advocacy
Prepare a theory of the case, anticipate counterarguments, and answer the court's questions directly. Keep submissions focused on the decisive issue.
Traps
- Vague prayers for relief that the court cannot execute.
- Citing norms without connecting them to facts.
- Mixing argument with evidence.
- Missing deadlines or formal requirements (signature, annexes).
Worked example
A client was dismissed without notice. Draft: facts (date of dismissal, absence of notice), issue (was the dismissal lawful?), rule (Labour Code notice requirement), application (no notice given, no ground for summary dismissal), conclusion (dismissal unlawful; claim reinstatement and compensation). This template converts a narrative into an actionable pleading.