Common English Mistakes in Legal Memos by Arabic Speakers

This page focuses on errors typically made by native Arabic speakers from Saudi Arabia when writing a Legal Memo in English.

Mistake Example #1

Confusion between masculine and feminine pronouns

To: Legal Department Subject: Review of Contractual Obligations In the recent case involving Mr. Ahmed and heris business partner, it is crucial to examine the clauses that she has agreed upon. The contract stipulates that he must fulfill heris obligations by the end of the fiscal year. It is important to ensure that heris responsibilities are clearly outlined to avoid any potential disputes.

Text corrected by:
Miss E., Cyprus, Europe

"This is about Mr. Ahmed, so the pronouns should be "he", "his" or "him". For example, "her business partner" should be "his business partner" and "she has agreed upon" should be "he has agreed upon"."

To: Legal Department Subject: Review of Contractual Obligations In the recent case involving Mr. Ahmed and his business partner, it is crucial to examine the clauses that he has agreed upon. The contract stipulates that he must fulfill his obligations by the end of the fiscal year. It is important to ensure that his responsibilities are clearly outlined to avoid any potential disputes.

To: Legal Department Subject: Review of Contractual Obligations In the recent case involving Mr. Ahmed and her business partner, it is crucial to examine the clauses that she has agreed upon. The contract stipulates that he must fulfill her obligations by the end of the fiscal year. It is important to ensure that her responsibilities are clearly outlined to avoid any potential disputes.

Mistake Example #2

Misuse of verb tense (e.g., 'He go to school' instead of 'He goes to school')

To: Legal Department Subject: Review of Contractual Obligations In the matter of the recent contract, it is important that we examine the clauses carefully. The client insists that we deliver the services by the end of the month, but the agreement states that we have until the next quarter. I recommend that we discuss this discrepancy with the client to ensure that all parties are in agreement with the timeline.

Text corrected by:
Jennifer, Detroit, Michigan USA

"Great job! I just made a couple of changes to keep the verb tense consistent."

To: Legal Department Subject: Review of Contractual Obligations In the matter of the recent contract, it is important that we examine the clauses carefully. The client insists that we deliver the services by the end of the month, but the agreement states that we have until the next quarter. I recommend that we discuss this discrepancy with the client to ensure that all parties are in agreement with the timeline.

To: Legal Department Subject: Review of Contractual Obligations In the matter of the recent contract, it is important that we examine the clauses carefully. The client insist that we deliver the services by the end of the month, but the agreement state that we have until the next quarter. I recommend that we discuss this discrepancy with the client to ensure that all parties are in agreement with the timeline.

Mistake Example #3

Overuse of formal expressions ('I am honored to inform you...')

To Whom It May Concern,: I am honored to inform you thatI have reviewed the contract withcarefutmost diligencely and rhave attached my suggespections. It is withgreatoprivilege that I present myou findings, wthicemhI believe wipfull be of significant benefit to your esteemed organization. I am dppreeply grciateful for the opportunity to conassistribut. Please to this importanlet matter and remain at your service fknorw any further clarifications you mneedanything requirlse.

Text corrected by:
Camille, Maryland, USA

"I have stripped out some of the formal expressions to simplify the message while keeping it professional."

To Whom It May Concern: I have reviewed the contract carefully and have attached my suggestions. I hope you find them helpful. I appreciate the opportunity to assist. Please let me know if you need anything else.

To Whom It May Concern, I am honored to inform you that I have reviewed the contract with utmost diligence and respect. It is with great privilege that I present my findings, which I believe will be of significant benefit to your esteemed organization. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this important matter and remain at your service for any further clarifications you may require.