Legal Analysis: The Fundamental Skill

I read this book twice in my first four weeks of law school and I believe it is a helpful resource for a first year law student. The book is well organized and easy to read. The authors do not simply present information, but include exercises at the end of each chapter to help students reinforce materials presented. The book does not waste any space, it is very concise and to the point. I think I've learned more from this book than from some assigned textbooks for my legal methods class. The authors present a structural writing technique for legal writing (CREAC), but also include a wealth of additional useful information. It teaches students fundamental techniques of legal analysis that students need to succeed in law school. Additionally, for first year law students, who have not employed legal writing before, this book is very helpful in all aspects. I think the authors definitely had the right audience in mind when they wrote the book. Many first year law students can benefit by investing their time and money in this book.

I have been in practice for six years and I wish I had this book when I was a first-year law student. It's concise yet packed full of information. Legal analysis is a difficult skill for law students and this book expertly helps unravel some its mysteries. I bought the book for a newer associate at my firm and he loves it. In fact, his writing and analysis has improved dramatically. I read the CREAC chapter with particular interest. I learned that I naturally draft legal documents in the CREAC format; so it certianly applies to practice. If more lawyers (and judges) adopted the CREAC format, we'd all benefit. Thank you.

I struggled my first year learning how to write legal memos, and my Professor was no help. Someone suggested that I read this book and it was a life saver. It clearly explains how to write both an objective and persuasive memo. It teaches you how to structure paragraphs and layout the memo. The book also has full examples of both an objective and persuasive memo, which you can use as a guide. It also explains how to write a clear and precise law exam. My grades and legal writing improved substantially because of this book; it also helped prepare me for my summer associate positions. I still use the book today improve my writing and I suggest it to any law student struggling with legal writing or writing exams. I think for any law student this book should be on your shelf.

I just finished my first year of law school and this book made it MUCH MUCH easier!!! Finally, a book that makes a dull topic not only interesting, but interactive!!! Job well done!! A must for anyone starting law school or needs to know the ins of legal research and writing! Bravo!