Includes bibliographical references (page 583) and index.
Contents:
The characteristics of optimal contract language -- The front of the contract -- Categories of contract language -- Layout -- The back of the contract -- Defined terms -- Sources of uncertain meaning in contract language -- Reasonable efforts and its variants -- Material and material adverse change -- References to time -- Ambiguity of the part versus the whole -- Syntactic ambiguity -- Selected usages -- Numbers and formulas -- Internal rules of interpretation -- Typography -- Drafting as writing -- Amendments -- Letter agreements.
Summary:
"With A Manual of Style for Contract Drafting, Kenneth A. Adams has created a uniquely in-depth survey of the building blocks of contract language. First published in 2004, it offers those who draft, review, negotiate, or interpret contracts an alternative to the dysfunction of traditional contract language and the inertia and flawed conventional wisdom that perpetuate it. This manual has become a vital resource throughout the legal profession, in the United States and internationally. [This fifth edition] contains more than 70 pages of new materials addressing many topics, making it even more authoritative and essential. The rest of the text reflects many adjustments. This manual's focus remains how to express contract terms in prose that is free of the archaisms, redundancies, ambiguities, and other problems that afflict traditional contract language. With exceptional analysis and an unmatched level of practical detail, Ken highlights common sources of confusion and recommends clearer and more concise alternatives. This manual is organized to facilitate easy reference, and it illustrates its analysis with numerous examples. Consult it to save time in drafting and negotiation and to reduce the risk of dispute"--Back cover
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.