Legal vocabulary is essential in the field of law. If you are planning to settle or work abroad or intend to study international law, then you cannot escape from legal language. Being in the law profession, you know that legal English is far different than the general English. Some words can mean a different number of things, depending upon the context. For example, the meaning of the term “consideration” in general English can be understood as the act of considering or careful thought whereas “consideration” means something of value or payment of money in law. So, you have to realize that there can be variation in legal definition as compared to the general definition. Here are a few ways which will help you to improve your legal vocabulary.
- Read case files: If you are interning under any organization or an attorney, then don't miss out the chance of reading case files. Note down in your diary all the legal words and find the meaning of it. Also, read judgements, supreme court opinions, law journals etc. This way, you not only find many legal words, but it also helps to improve your writing skill.
- Watch movies or series: There are some exciting TV shows or movies such as Law & Order, Suits, Fairly Legal, The Paper Chase and so on which you will not only enjoy watching but also experience an intriguing profession of law. Well, it is true that these series do not show the actual reality but surely gives you an insight into the profession.
- Law books: If you are keen on writing or want to become a paralegal, then you must read some law books specially designed for this purpose. You will find many practice guides for drafting online. Also, many law books must be read by every law student in India. Some of them are Landmark judgements that changed India by Ashok k. Ganguly, letters to a law student by Nicholas Mcbride, to kill a mockingbird by Harper Lee and so on.
- Build your dictionary: Creating your dictionary and writing down all the words you discover is a great idea. It will keep motivating you to learn new words, and this way it will give you the confidence of learning so many new words. Once you have begun writing words, starts reviewing it and keep regularly doing until you fix them in your memory.
- Practice: You hold the key to learning. Read and practice as much as you can. Revise the words you have written and once you learn the meaning of the terms, start using them with precision. This way, you will surely notice an improvement in your legal writing.
CONCLUSION
Writing well in English is a definite requirement in law. The legal meaning of words is the universal language between judge and lawyer who rely on this language to communicate effectively. Hence, developing an excellent legal vocabulary is very important. Moreover, it makes your work easier and even expand your business at national as well as international level.
