We should think about copyright and whether we are operating within the bounds of the law every time we put pen to paper or keystroke to keyboard.

Legal writing is usually technical and nonfiction. We use forms from various sources, we quote from cases, and we paraphrase statutes. We don't often consider whether we are infringing on a valid copyright. And usually, we're not.

Except when we are.

Not all writing… Continue reading

Posted on August 19th, 2009 under Art, Business, Craft. Tags: Craft, craft fiction, craft nonfiction, legal writing. Comments: None

As I mentioned, the business of publishing in all its forms is rapidly changing. The old model of write the book, find an agent, sell to a New York City publisher still works. But it's slower than a U.S. Supreme Court death penalty opinion. Unlike death penalty cases, though, where lawyers and defendants must simply slog through the process even if it takes 20 years, the internet now provides writers with… Continue reading

Posted on May 21st, 2009 under Business. Tags: Business, Craft, fiction, legal writing, nonfiction. Comments: None

Legal writing is a highly specialized art form that should be employed only when it can't be avoided. Every audience will appreciate your adherence to a simple plan: never use highly technical writing techniques when more reader friendly versions will do the job (and be more effective in the process). This is a good rule for all technical professionals. Doctors, pharmacists, engineers, marketers, human relations experts, and rocket scientists. I'm not simply… Continue reading

Posted on May 14th, 2009 under Craft. Tags: Art, Business, Craft, legal writing. Comments: None