Associate Attorney( Civil Litigation & Trial Law)
Other examples of redundant phrases in legal writing include what Justice Laskin referred to as the“ dreaded couplets:”“ null and void,”“ due and payable,” or“ free and clear.” 5 You can add to this list phrases like“ full and complete” or“ true and accurate.” In each of these examples, one of the two words will suffice; cut the other.
3. Cut nominalizations
Nominalization is the process of turning verbs( or adjectives) into nouns. 6 For example, apply becomes to submit an application, investigate becomes to conduct an investigation, and consider becomes to take into consideration. A nominalization not only takes a strong action verb( decide) and turns it into a static noun( decision), but it also requires a supporting and often weaker verb( make a decision). The overuse of nominalizations in legal writing makes the writing wordier, more abstract, and less impactful. To write with clarity, concreteness, and concision, choose precise action verbs instead.
THIS: The administration decided to expand the program.
NOT THIS: The administration made a decision to expand the program.
THIS: The witness described the event. NOT THIS: The witness provided a description of the event.
THIS: The parties agreed. NOT THIS: The parties executed an agreement.
To spot nominalizations in your writing, look for words ending in“-ion,”“-ure,”“-ity,”“-ment,” or“-ence.” These words signal nominalizations— nouns with hidden verbs in them. And while nominalizations are technically grammatically correct, they add clutter to your writing. So, when you find them, cut them.
Spring is in the air— it’ s time to declutter! Use the three tips above to get rid of the clutter in your legal writing. Start small—“ throat-clearing” and filler phrases first, redundant modifiers and nominalizations next. Thank them for trying— then let them go!
1. What is the KonMarie Method?, available at https:// konmari. com / about-thekonmari-method /.
2. Laura Graham, How to“ Declunkify” Your Legal Writing: Three Key Strategies, North Carolina Lawyer Magazine( May 2023).
3. John I. Laskin, Forget the Windup and Make the Pitch: Some Suggestions for Writing More Persuasive Factums, available at https:// www. ontariocourts. ca / coa / about-thecourt / archives / forget-the-wind-up-and-make-the-pitch-some-suggestions-forwriting-more-persuasive-factums /.
4. Bryan A. Garner, Garner’ s Usage Tip of the Day: there is; there are( 1)( quoting Lucile Vaughan Payne, The Lively Art of Writing 64-65( 1965)), available at https:// lawprose. org / garners-usage-tip-of-the-day-there-is-there-are-1 /. 5. Laskin, id. at 3. 6. Adjective can become nouns, too: specific becomes specificity or important becomes importance.
JOIN A WINNING LEGAL TEAM –
Associate Attorney( Civil Litigation & Trial Law)
Location: Fargo, North Dakota • Start Date: Negotiable
ABST Law is expanding and we ' re looking for a skilled, motivated Associate Attorney with a passion for civil litigation and trial advocacy to join our dynamic, high-performing legal team.
If you ' re a strategic thinker with courtroom presence, sharp legal writing skills, and a desire to grow professionally, this is your opportunity to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, and client-focused environment.
What We’ re Looking For:
• Demonstrated success in litigation or related legal work
• Meticulous attention to detail and strong critical thinking under pressure
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Strong academic credentials and professional references
• Admission to practice in North Dakota( or ability to obtain admission)
• Proficient with Microsoft 365 Suite and common legal software tools
Why Choose ABST Law? We offer more than just a job – we offer a career path with real potential. At ABST Law, you can expect:
• Competitive, production-based compensation – most associates earn $ 100,000 to $ 175,000 annually
• Real growth opportunities in a team-oriented, supportive environment
• Comprehensive benefits, including: health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 401( k) retirement plan with firm contributions
• A firm that values your voice, your growth, and your success
Ready to Take the Next Step? Make a meaningful impact with a firm that’ s committed to excellence, innovation and your success.
TO APPLY: Please submit your cover letter, resume, law school transcript, writing sample, and professional references to: Jennifer Schoepp at ABST Law, P. O. Box 10247, Fargo, ND 58106-0247; or email: jschoepp @ abstlaw. net
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