SQE2 Legal Drafting: Developing Your Skills

Introduction

In the SQE2, Legal drafting is an indispensable skill for any aspiring solicitor. It involves creating clear, precise, and legally sound documents. In the Solicitors Qualifying Examination 2 (SQE2), your legal drafting skills will be put to the test. This article aims to help you understand and develop the skills you need to excel in this critical area.

Understanding Legal Drafting

Legal drafting is the process of creating legal documents - from contracts to wills, to legal letters. These documents need to be accurate, unambiguous, and comprehensive, leaving no room for misinterpretation. A well-drafted document will reflect the intent of the parties, adhere to relevant legal principles, and protect the interests of the client.

Key Skills for Effective Legal Drafting

Legal drafting requires a keen understanding of the law and a meticulous attention to detail. You must be able to apply relevant legal principles accurately, ensuring that the document fulfills its intended purpose.

Three key skills underpin effective legal drafting: precision, clarity, and coherence. Precision ensures that your document is exact and accurate. Clarity means that your drafting is easily understood, while coherence ensures that the document's various parts work together logically and consistently.

SQE2 and Legal Drafting

In the SQE2, legal drafting is one of the five practical legal skills assessments. You will be required to draft a range of legal documents. This may include drafting a contract clause, writing a letter of advice to a client, or creating a will. To succeed, you'll need to demonstrate an ability to interpret and apply the law, communicate complex ideas clearly, and adhere to professional conduct rules.

Developing Your Legal Drafting Skills

To enhance your legal drafting skills, consider the following strategies:

Practise Regularly: Regular drafting practice will help you to become more comfortable with legal language and format. Try drafting different types of documents to broaden your skills.

Study Model Documents: Reviewing well-drafted documents can help you understand how to structure and phrase your drafts. Look at the language, format, and organization used in these documents.

Seek Feedback: If possible, have your drafts reviewed by someone with legal expertise. They can provide valuable insight and help you identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

Legal drafting is a fundamental skill that you will use throughout your career as a solicitor. By understanding its importance and honing your skills, you will be well-prepared to excel in the SQE2 and beyond.