An Introduction To Legal Writing Headings Format and




















- Slides: 20
An Introduction To Legal Writing: Headings, Format, and Citations
Components of the Memorandum • • • Cover page Table of Contents Table of Authorities Table of abbreviations Statement of Facts Summary of Argument on Jurisdiction Argument on the Merits Request for Relief • Total maximum: 35 pages
Cover Page • The school’s name and logo • A title identifying the party on whose behalf the memo is being submitted • Address and roles of both parties • Names of team members
Table of Contents • Easier navigation through the memorandum • Entries for each of the sections of the memo with page numbers on which they begin • Entries for headings and sub-headings for arguments on Jurisdiction and Merits
Table of Authorities • A comprehensive list of all the resources used and cited within the memorandum • Use shorter inline citation in the memorandum itself – the author’s name or short title of the work and the specific page where the reference is made • Not wasting valuable space • State the paragraph of the memorandum where you cited a source • Organize by alphabetical order
Table of Abbreviations • The abbreviations do not need to be commonly used • If you are making up an abbreviation, remind the reader when using it for the first time • Include even the most common ones (USA, Inc. , CISG) • Organize by alphabetical order in two columns
Statement of Facts • A brief description of events that give rise to your client’s legal position (approximately two pages) • Present the facts in a way that is most favorable for your client • Use strong words to emphasize the failures of the other party
Summary of Argument • Completed only after the arguments on jurisdiction and merits are finalised • Be brief and emphasize your main points • Do not go into detailed explanation of arguments • Purpose: to introduce the reader to your arguments and make it easier for them to follow your line of argumentation • Not longer than two pages
Formatting the Arguments I RESPONDENT FAILED TO PERFORM ITS CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATION A. . B. . . . ii. . 1. . 2. .
Request for Relief • Explaining what is it that you are hoping to receive for your client • Each main topic heading of your argumentation should be represented