6. Do your “homework” when writing legal instructions

If you are giving citizens or businesses instructions involving their legal rights or obligations, make sure they are absolutely correct.

How do I do this?

Check your rules and statutes: Make sure you are in complying with any requirements set forth in the RCWs and WACs. Have them checked out by an attorney familiar with your program.
Make sure the program reviews any changes made by the attorney, so it process matches the attorney’s recommendations.
Don't assume your reader will understand legal terminology. Some words that may confuse: Notarize, Warrant, Serve.
Send a final, clear write-through to the program and the attorney if their changes aren’t clear.
Set the appeal rights statement apart from the body of the decision: Use white space and a simple header, like "What to do if you disagree with this decision."

Citizens have the right to absolutely correct and clear information when it comes to understanding their rights and obligations under the law.

Do	Don’t
You must call in each week or you will not get a check.	You must certify your job search each week to receive benefits.
If you do not respond to this notice, you will have to repay the benefits you received.	Our records indicate that you did not report your full income while receiving benefits. This may be deemed an overpayment. If you dispute this fact, you must file an appeal.