This initial session focuses on the big picture of legal writing and the often-overlooked work that happens before you draft the first sentence. We begin by examining what can go wrong when writers write — common pitfalls that undermine clarity, organization, and effectiveness — and how those issues can be compounded when writing becomes a team sport. The session explores the unique challenges of collaborative writing, including misaligned goals, inconsistent voice, and unclear roles.

From there, the discussion turns to the critical pre-writing process: understanding the situation, the audience, and the purpose of the document before writing begins. You’ll learn practical strategies for deciding what information belongs in a document and what you should leave out, striking the right balance between being complete and being concise. We conclude with techniques for overcoming blank-screen panic and gaining momentum in those crucial first moments of drafting, helping writers start with confidence and direction.