Legal English Course – Effective Communication

Effective communication is one of the surest ways to stand out in your career. Especially in the legal profession, communication skills distinguish strong performers from average ones.

Times change – a new and relevant course
The Europa Institut has been offering tuition on Legal English for over twenty years but now, in recognition of the advances in online translation and AI and the increasing demand for English usage in Switzerland, the Institut announces a completely new course for 2025.

The Swiss Parliament recently passed legislation that will permit cantons to establish international courts where disputes can be litigated in English. The ability to use Legal English competently and confidently has therefore become a requirement of lawyers working in an international environment.

This course will address the following areas:

1. Technology
Will generative AI make learning to write Legal English irrelevant? Might AI make even lawyers redundant? Used well, generative AI tools can make a thoughtful professional more effective. Used carelessly, however, the opportunities for mistakes abound. And what of phone calls, meetings, negotiations, presentations, and the myriad ways we communicate in person?

Ironically, in an era when clients reasonably expect excellent communication, generative AI will lead many to make more mistakes and communicate less clearly. We will cover key pitfalls and explore how to use relevant tools well.

2. Common Law concepts and cases
The language of civil procedure, courts and litigation, US Corporations, Tax Law, Administrative Law, IP, Employment Law, Family and Succession Law, International Contracts and Tort Law

3. Specific communication training
This course teaches effective communication skills across the broad range of legal communication: spoken and written communication, in both formal and informal contexts. We systematically build students‘ competence and confidence in effective communication.