Legal Writing

Do we have any legal people here?

I spoke with a probate investigator who told me i should write a letter to a judge and to use bullet points.

I know the letter should use the KISS method, but what I need to know is what are those factors that the judge will be looking for in the letter? And what should be left out.

Glowpun said:

Do we have any legal people here?

I spoke with a probate investigator who told me i should write a letter to a judge and to use bullet points.

I know the letter should use the KISS method, but what I need to know is what are those factors that the judge will be looking for in the letter? And what should be left out.

Click to expand...

Are you really asking for legal advice from members of an internet forum? :wassat1:

Look, if you want some sound legal advice off of the internet then here it is...find and consult with a qualified attorney licensed to practice in your State. :fyi:

If the issue is important enough, then it should be worth the minor expense to get it done right. :twocents:

Glowpun said:

Do we have any legal people here?

I spoke with a probate investigator who told me i should write a letter to a judge and to use bullet points.

I know the letter should use the KISS method, but what I need to know is what are those factors that the judge will be looking for in the letter? And what should be left out.

Click to expand...

I would second captain adverse, go to an expert, A lawyer, attorney, heck even a certified notary working at a random bank probably has more experience than most people here on that subject.

There are a few attorneys here, but I agree with the above posters. You really need to meet with someone face to face and explain what you need. An attorney, a paralegal or whatever, would serve you well. There are times when such advice is well worth the modest sum required to get the result you're after. This is probably one of them.

Glowpun said:

Do we have any legal people here?

I spoke with a probate investigator who told me i should write a letter to a judge and to use bullet points.

I know the letter should use the KISS method, but what I need to know is what are those factors that the judge will be looking for in the letter? And what should be left out.

Click to expand...

Without knowing the purpose of the letter, I don't see how anybody can help you organize what you have to say. But if you're talking about the structure of the letter, state your purpose and summarize your main points in your first paragraph. The judge needs to know what you want and why; don't waste his or her time. Discuss each point in its turn. Restate what you want/need/hope and why in final paragraph. You can find various samples by Googling.

Best Way to Write a Professional Letter to a Judge

precise, logical, well organized and short

just like any other important communication be it written or verbal

Glowpun said:

Do we have any legal people here?

I spoke with a probate investigator who told me i should write a letter to a judge and to use bullet points.

I know the letter should use the KISS method, but what I need to know is what are those factors that the judge will be looking for in the letter? And what should be left out.

Click to expand...

What information are you trying to impart to the judge? Bullet points are a very effective way to communicate.

Look at Nota's link. Great information. After the address portion of the letter, include a subject line. First paragraph - one or two short sentences clearly explaining the purpose of your letter, what you hope to accomplish. And who you are relative to the case you're commenting on. Then launch into your bullet points.

Keep it brief. Keep emotion out of it. Last paragraph thank the judge and offer to provide more information as necessary.

I, too, think you should consult with an attorney. There are times when it is TOTALLY inappropriate to communicate with a judge.

And I should have added that a great way to organize your thinking is to write a _______ because ____, _____, and _____. These points become your bullets.