| I. |
Reasons for drafting corporate documents |
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A. |
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Codify the substance of the transaction so both sides are clear as to the rights, duties and expectations |
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B. |
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In the event of a dispute, the intent, rights, duties and expectations to interpreted |
| II. |
Know the client's expectations |
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A. |
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Understand the goal |
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B. |
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The proposed timing of the transaction |
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C. |
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The risk of the transaction |
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D. |
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The risk profile of the client |
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E. |
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The amount of post-transaction flexibility |
| III. |
Structure of the document |
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A. |
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Move from basic to specific information |
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B. |
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Have descriptive headers and sub-headers |
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C. |
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Identify redundant and repetitive information |
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D. |
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Draft document in plain English |
| IV. |
Constructing effective sentences to use in drafting |
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A. |
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Parallel verbs |
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B. |
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Passive voice |
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C. |
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Personal pronouns |
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D. |
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Redundancies |
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E. |
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Superfluous words |
| V. |
How to use words to construct effective sentences |
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A. |
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Confusing terms and phrases in drafting |
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B. |
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Words commonly misused in legal writing |
| VI. |
The use of authoritative words in drafting |
| VII. |
Using correct grammar in drafting |
| VIII. |
Miscellaneous or General Clauses in drafting documents |