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Wednesday 4 July 2007

Words lawyers adore

From my previous career, I learnt that 'probably' was a word that lawyers loved to use.

Example: The judge will probably hold that X can claim damages for non-performance.

Another word that is commonly used by lawyers is 'probably's' sister, and it is 'probable'.

Example: It is probable that the action will be successful.

These words are often preceded by the adverb 'highly' - 'altamente' in Italian.

Then there are two other words beloved of lawyers: 'may' and 'might'. And guess what? Yes, they imply probability. They are also very similar.

Example: The court might not decide in our favour. They may agree to the modification of Clause 1b of the contract.

I could probably provide you with many more examples. But I might bore you. In fact, it is highly probable that I will. So, I will not.

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