A misconception is floating around that legal content must be complex to be credible. Too many firms fall into the trap of thinking that big words and dense paragraphs convey expertise. But let’s be honest—nobody has the time or energy to wade through an ocean of legal jargon, especially not your clients.

Look, the true power of legal content lies not in how sophisticated it sounds but in how easily your readers or listeners can understand it. It’s about taking those complicated legal concepts and making them accessible to the very people who need them most. That’s what helps build trust, and that’s what helps turn readers into clients.

The Jargon Trap: Why Simplicity Matters

The legal industry is notorious for its jargon. Words and phrases like “heretofore,” “notwithstanding,” and “aforesaid” might look impressive on paper, but they don’t do your audience any favors. When you overload your legal content with these terms, it risks alienating the very people it’s supposed to help.

Clients come to you because they’re facing challenges they need help solving. They’re looking for guidance, reassurance, and solutions. The last thing they need is to feel like you’re talking down to them or, worse, leaving them in the dark. That’s why simplicity isn’t just nice; it’s necessary. Your clear and straightforward legal content invites your audience in and makes them feel understood. And that’s the first step to building a relationship of trust.

The Science Behind Simplicity

Let’s talk science for a moment. Studies have shown that the average adult reads at a 7th to 8th-grade reading level. That doesn’t mean your audience isn’t intelligent—far from it. However, their ability to process complex information decreases when people are stressed or overwhelmed, as they often are when dealing with legal issues. So, if your legal content is too dense or difficult to understand, it’s likely to be skimmed, misunderstood, or worse—ignored entirely.

On the flip side, when legal content is easy to read, it’s more likely to be fully absorbed. That means your message gets through loud and clear. Your audience is more likely to engage with it, whether that’s by reaching out for a consultation, sharing your content, or simply returning to your website for more information.

How to Keep It Simple (Without Sacrificing Authority)

Now, I know what some of you might be thinking: “But if I simplify my legal content too much, won’t it undermine my authority?” Not at all. In fact, the opposite is true.

Simplifying your language doesn’t mean dumbing it down. It means making it accessible. It’s about distilling complex legal concepts into clear, concise explanations that anyone can understand. And when you do that effectively, you’re not just demonstrating your expertise—you’re proving that you can communicate that expertise in a way that truly serves your clients.

So, how do you strike that balance? Here are a few tips:

1. Avoid Legalese: Ditch the jargon wherever possible. Instead of saying “pursuant to,” try “under.” Instead of “commence,” say “start.” Simpler words get your point across faster and with less confusion.
2. Use Short Sentences: Long, winding sentences can be complex to follow. Keep your sentences short and to the point. It makes your legal content easier to read and digest.
3. Break It Down: Complex concepts should be broken down into bite-sized pieces. Use subheadings, bullet points, and numbered lists to make your content more scannable.
4. Tell a Story: People relate to stories. Whenever possible, use examples or hypothetical scenarios to illustrate your points. It makes your legal content more relatable and engaging.
5. Read It Aloud: One of the best ways to ensure your legal content is clear is to read it out loud. You’re on the right track if it sounds natural and flows easily. It might be time to revise if you find yourself stumbling over your words.

In a world where everyone’s racing to sound smart, be the one who chooses to sound clear. After all, the real magic of legal content isn’t in making it hard to read—it’s in making it impossible to ignore.