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There are two things wrong with almost all legal writing…

“There are two things wrong with almost all legal writing. One is its style. The other is its content.” quote by Fred Rodell
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“There are two things wrong with almost all legal writing. One is its style. The other is its content.”

Fred Rodell

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Legal writing often fails because its style is poor and its substance is weak.

In simple terms: Bad style and content ruin legal writing.

Key Takeaway

Improve both style and substance.

Themes

law writing clarity effectiveness critique

Mood

frustrated critical

Type

advice analytical

When to use this quote

  • drafting contracts
  • court briefs
  • legislative drafting
  • law school assignments

Key Concepts

rhetoric legal theory communication

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance clear style with strong argument?
  • What content gaps do you see in your own writing?
A Different Perspective

Changing style alone won’t fix flawed arguments.

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