BriefCatch Blog

Logical Transition Examples—To Draw an Analogy or Compare

Here are a few examples of how the Greats analogize and compare cases, facts, and contexts. Case citations have been replaced by “. . .” to shorten these passages and to allow you to digest them more easily. As in X, Y Example from Seth Waxman: “The Federal Circuit reasoned that

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Syntax: Split Infinitives

Split Infinitive What Is a Split Infinitive? A split infinitive involves placing an adverb or other word/phrase between the word “to” and an infinitive verb (e.g., “go”): “to boldly go.” Historically, there was a rule against splitting infinitives. However, the reasons for such a rule are antiquated and have no application to today’s

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Logical Transition Examples—To Provide Another Point

Does enumerating your supporting reasons with  “First . . . Second . . . Third . . .” feel too stilted and wooden? Instead, try sprinkling in some of these transition phrases to increase flow and supply a conversational feel.  Case citations have been replaced by “. . .” to

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Five Ways to Write Like John Roberts The Brief-Writer

Chief Justice John Roberts is renowned for his exceptional brief writing. Discover five of his most effective techniques to enhance your legal writing, from using vivid facts to ending with impact. Learn how to apply these strategies to make your briefs stand out in our latest blog.

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Five Grammar Myths Debunked

Feeling bogged down by grammar myths? You’re not alone. If you’ve ever hesitated to start a sentence with “but” or “because” or feared splitting an infinitive more than a root canal, this blog is your rescue remedy. Learn why starting a sentence with a conjunction is often preferred, and learn how splitting infinitives can enhance clarity and flow. Read on to liberate your legal writing from these outdated constraints!

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Five Ways to Write Like Paul Clement

The controversial prosecution of New York Mayor Eric Adams has a legal-writing silver lining: The Court asked for an amicus trial brief from Supreme Court brief-writer extraordinaire Paul Clement. Lurking within are five great writing tips for the rest of us along with choice excerpts for your inspiration at the...

Four Motion Mistakes

Read about the critical insights from a Florida federal judge who corrected dozens of errors in a routine motion, revealing common pitfalls even top legal writers make. Learn from four key examples, including the nuanced rules of capitalization for 'Order' and 'Motion,' the proper use of 'Plaintiff,' 'Defendant,' and 'Court,'...

Write Like the Best – Eight Top Legal Writing Tips: Webinar Recap

On September 10, 2024, BriefCatch hosted an engaging webinar, Write Like the Best: Eight Top Legal Writing Tips, led by Ross Guberman, Founder and CEO of BriefCatch. With over 100 attendees, the session provided actionable strategies for sharpening legal writing, whether for briefs, memos, or emails.Opening RemarksLydia Flocchini, BriefCatch’s CMO,...

Welcome to the Legal Writing Pro Newsletter

Discover the latest updates and tips from BriefCatch in our inaugural issue of The Legal Writing Pro. From event highlights and a new AI-driven tool to exclusive legal writing tips from Ross Guberman, this newsletter is packed with insights to elevate your legal writing.

Feeling Possessive?

Wondering how to tackle possessives in legal writing? In Kansas v. Marsh, Justices Thomas and Souter clashed over “Kansas’ statute” vs. “Kansas’s statute.” Discover which approach prevails and why nearly all authorities side with Souter. Dive in to master this crucial aspect of legal style and keep your documents flawless!