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CS Professional · Drafting, Pleadings and Appearances · General Principles of Drafting

Anita is instructed to draft a board resolution and a shareholders' notice for Vikram Steels Ltd. Her senior says that in legal drafting the draftsman must keep the reader in mind. Which approach follows this advice?

Keeping the reader in mind means using clear language whose meaning is free from doubt for the person relying on the document. Needless complexity, Latin phrases or undefined terms obstruct understanding and go against the purpose of legal drafting.

  1. AUse language that the intended reader can understand without doubt about the meaningCorrect
  2. BUse long, complex sentences to show legal expertise
  3. CInsert Latin phrases throughout irrespective of the reader
  4. DAvoid defining any term so the document stays short

Explanation

A legal document must convey the intended meaning clearly to those who will rely on it, such as members, courts or authorities. Complexity, unnecessary jargon or omitted definitions create doubt and defeat that aim.

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