| name | legal-memorandum |
| title | Legal Memorandum |
| description | Drafts objective internal legal memoranda using the CREAC method with structured header, questions presented, brief answers, statement of facts, analysis, and strategic recommendations. Use when drafting legal memos, research memoranda, pre-trial analysis, or any objective internal legal analysis document. |
| author | CaseMark |
| author_url | https://github.com/CaseMark/skills/tree/main/skills/legal/legal-memorandum |
| license | Apache-2.0 |
| version | 0.1.0 |
| execution_mode | open |
| jurisdiction | general |
| practice | general |
| language | en |
Legal Memorandum
Drafts an objective, internally focused legal memorandum analyzing specific legal questions with reasoned conclusions and strategic recommendations.
Prerequisites
Gather before drafting:
- Legal question(s) — specific issues requiring analysis
- Relevant facts — documents, depositions, evidence, or client narrative
- Jurisdiction — controlling state/federal law
- Audience — attorney (doctrinal depth) or client (practical emphasis)
- Known authority — statutes, regulations, key case law
Quick Start
- Draft header with DATE, TO, FROM, RE (RE must identify the legal issue, not just the case name)
- Frame 1–3 questions in Under-Does-When format
- Provide brief yes/no answers with controlling rule and key facts
- State facts objectively in chronological or topical order
- Analyze each issue using CREAC
- Conclude with direct answers, strategic recommendations, and next steps
Output Structure
1. Header
Standard memo header: DATE, TO, FROM, RE. The RE line must identify the specific legal issue (e.g., "Likelihood of Success on Summary Judgment — Causation in Doe v. Metro Transit"). Include matter/case reference number if available.
2. Questions Presented
Draft 1–3 questions using Under-Does-When format:
- Under — relevant law, statute, or rule
- Does/Is/Can — legal conclusion sought
- When — key facts driving the analysis
Frame for yes/no or short definitive answers. Prioritize by importance to client objectives. No conclusory or leading language.
3. Brief Answer
For each question:
- Open with Yes, No, or Probably [yes/no]
- 2–3 sentences of critical reasoning
- Reference controlling rule and dispositive facts
4. Statement of Facts
- Organization: chronological (transactions/procedural) or topical (multiple theories)
- Scope: legally relevant facts + necessary background only
- Tone: objective — no editorial commentary
- Sourcing: cite specific documents, depositions, exhibits parenthetically
- Disputed facts: flag explicitly when contested or unclear
