We’re proud to share that Alan E. Freed, one of our seasoned family law attorneys at Paule, Camazine & Blumenthal, was recently published in the Journal of the Missouri Bar. In his article, “Write a Contract Your Client Can Understand,” Freed explores an issue that affects nearly every client who has ever signed a legal document: legalese.
Freed, a frequent advocate for clear, client-friendly writing, walks through the historical roots of outdated legal phrases like “WITNESSETH” and “WHEREFORE,” explains why they persist, and offers practical strategies for drafting legal documents that are accessible and understandable.
Why this matters to our clients:
Too often, clients are handed contracts, agreements, or pleadings that seem written for other lawyers, not the people whose lives are impacted by them.
Freed’s approach, simplifying language without sacrificing legal precision, has long been a hallmark of how we practice family law at our firm. Whether it’s a prenuptial agreement or a parenting plan, we believe every client deserves to understand what they’re agreeing to.
Recognition by the profession:
The Journal of the Missouri Bar is a leading publication for legal professionals across the state. Alan’s inclusion speaks not just to his clarity as a writer, but to his leadership in shaping how family law is practiced in Missouri.
In fact, he’s co-authored two books, including Divorce in Missouri, and many articles in professional journals, and regularly presents at lawyers’ conferences.
We invite you to read the full article, published with permission from the Missouri Bar:
Write a Contract Your Client Can Understand
Attorney Spotlight: Alan E. Freed
Alan E. Freed is a leading family law attorney and mediator in Missouri with more than four decades of experience. He is known statewide for his work in mediation, collaborative divorce, and appellate advocacy.
Highlights of his career include:
- Listed in Best Lawyers since 2007 in Collaborative Law, Family Law, and Mediation
- Named St. Louis Lawyer of the Year eight times, most recently in 2025
- Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers
- AV-rated by Martindale-Hubbell
- Co-author of Divorce in Missouri and Appellate Practice (Vol. 24, Missouri Practice series)
- Adjunct professor at Washington University School of Law for 13 years
- Regular lecturer for the Missouri Bar, AFCC, and legal associations across the U.S.
His practice emphasizes creative problem-solving through mediation and collaboration, and he leads the firm’s appellate practice in family law matters.
Contact Alan Freed:
Phone: 314.244.3653
Fax: 314-727-2101
Location: Clayton, Missouri
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