How long did your last contract draft take? Four hours? Six? What if you could cut that time by up to 70% without sacrificing quality or professional judgment?
Imagine typing one smart prompt into an AI tool and seeing a first draft appear in minutes. That’s what Microsoft Copilot prompts can do for lawyers.
Copilot for Microsoft 365 works natively in Microsoft 365 applications, including Word, Outlook, Excel, and Teams. It drafts legal documents directly in Word, composes client emails with the appropriate tone, and generates meeting summaries from Teams recordings. It can also analyze Excel data for legal matters and create PowerPoint presentations from existing documents.
But its effectiveness depends entirely on the prompts you give it. This guide shares Copilot prompts for lawyers to simplify legal work.
Key Takeaways
Copilot works best with detailed, specific, structured prompts.
Effective prompts include context, document type, formatting criteria, and jurisdictional requirements.
Always review and verify the accuracy of AI-generated legal documents. Copilot prompts create starting points, not finished products.
Copilot Prompts for Contract Drafting
Copilot for Microsoft 365 shines brightest in document automation. It allows you to continue working in your document, with no need to copy, paste, or switch tabs. Here are prompts to help transactional lawyers and corporate counsel draft agreements faster. Each prompt can be customized for specific situations.
Note that Copilot is most effective when you point it to your own firm’s precedents (e.g., "Draft a lease based on /Precedent_A.docx")
Prompt 1: Complete Contract First Draft Generation
Draft a [Contract Type] between [Party A, a State of Incorporation/Entity Type] and [Party B, a State of Incorporation/Entity Type] for [Purpose].
Use /[Reference_File.docx] as the primary baseline for style, tone, and boilerplate structure. Maintain consistency with all Defined Terms found in the reference document.
Include the following sections, ensuring they are adapted for [Jurisdiction]:
Definitions: Include [List specific terms, e.g., Net Revenue, Intellectual Property Rights].
Term & Termination: Provide for an initial term of [X] years with [X] days notice for convenience.
Indemnification: Draft this as a [Mutual/One-Way] provision, specifically covering [Specific Risks].
Limitation of Liability: Cap total aggregate liability at [X Amount or 1x Fees].
Governing Law: Set to the laws of [State/Country], with exclusive venue in [Specific Court/City].
Format: Use hierarchical numbered sections (e.g., 1., 1.1, 1.1.1).
Tone: Professional, precise, and favor [Party A/Party B/Neutral] in the commercial terms.
Accuracy Check: If a specific statutory requirement for [Jurisdiction] is unknown to you, do not invent a citation. Instead, insert a bracketed placeholder: [LEGAL COUNSEL TO VERIFY LOCAL STATUTE].
Prompt 2: Individual Clause Drafting and Variation
Prepare a [clause type] for a [contract type] that [specific requirement]. Provide three variations: one favoring the service provider, one balanced, and one favoring the client. Each should be 2-3 paragraphs and include [specific elements].
Instead of just saying "favoring the client," give it a specific "lever" to pull.
Example: "Draft a limitation of liability clause favoring the provider by capping total liability at 1x the annual fees paid."
Prompt 3: Contract Amendment and Addendum Drafting
Instruction: Open the Original Contract in Word. Open the Copilot sidebar and use the / tool to reference both the Original Contract and any "Term Sheet" or email summary of the changes.
Act as a senior legal counsel. Draft a [First/Second/Third] Amendment to the [Name of Original Agreement] (the "Original Agreement") dated [Effective Date of Original Agreement] between [Party A] and [Party B].
Base all changes on /[Original_Contract.docx] and the specific new terms outlined in /[Change_Summary.docx or Term_Sheet.docx].
Specific Modifications:
Example: Section [Y] (Term): Extend the Expiration Date from [Old Date] to [New Date].
Example: New Section [Z]: Add a new section titled "[Title]" that addresses [Specific Requirement].
Requirements:
Defined Terms: Use the exact capitalized terms defined in the Original Agreement. Do not create new definitions for terms already established.
Ratification: Include a "Ratification of Agreement" clause stating that all other terms of the Original Agreement remain in full force and effect.
Inconsistency: Include a "Conflict" clause stating that this Amendment shall prevail in the event of any inconsistency with the Original Agreement.
Format: Match the font, paragraph numbering style, and indentation of the Original Agreement exactly.
If any section number being modified does not exist in the Original Agreement, or if a defined term used in the Change Summary is missing from the Original Agreement, flag this with a [WARNING: INCONSISTENCY DETECTED] note.
Copilot Prompts for Litigation Document Drafting
Drafting motions requires a balance of persuasive storytelling and strict adherence to local rules. These prompts are designed to generate the "structural shell" and "legal standards" sections, allowing you to focus on high-level strategy.
Prompt 4: Motion to Dismiss Drafting
Use this to build the foundational legal standard and structure for a 12(b)(6) or similar jurisdictional challenge.
Act as a litigation attorney drafting a Motion to Dismiss under [e.g., FRCP 12(b)(6)] in the case of [Case Name/Number] in the [Court Name].
Structure: Include a Statement of Facts based on /[Complaint_File.docx], a Legal Standard section, a persuasive Argument section with subheadings, and a Conclusion.
Key Arguments: Focus on [Argument 1, e.g., Statute of Limitations] and [Argument 2, e.g., Failure to Allege Essential Element of Fraud].
Citations: Provide placeholder citations for [Jurisdiction] case law.
Constraint: Do not invent facts. If the Complaint is silent on a key point, insert a bracketed note: [COUNSEL: INSERT FACTUAL ANALYSIS HERE].
Format with standard court captions and 12-pt Times New Roman styling.
Prompt 5: Summary Judgment Motion Drafting
This prompt focuses on the "Statement of Undisputed Material Facts" (SUMF), which is the most time-consuming part of an MSJ.
Draft a Motion for Summary Judgment for [Moving Party] in [Case Name/Number].
Reference Source: Analyze /[Deposition_Summaries.docx] and /[Discovery_Responses.docx] to identify evidence.
Statement of Undisputed Material Facts: Create a section with numbered paragraphs. Each paragraph must state a single fact and include a placeholder for the record citation: [See Exhibit X, Page Y].
Legal Standard: Draft the summary judgment standard for the [Court Name], citing the relevant controlling authority.
Arguments: Focus on [Key Legal Issue]. Ensure the argument specifically references the numbered facts created above.
Format: Ensure the document complies with [Local Rule Number, if known] regarding page limits and table of contents.
Prompt 6: Complaint and Answer Drafting
The goal of using AI for pleadings is to convert a set of raw facts or a received Complaint into a perfectly formatted court document that satisfies all jurisdictional requirements.
For Complaints: Use this to transform a client intake memo or fact summary into a formal legal Complaint.
Act as a plaintiff's attorney drafting a Formal Complaint in the [Court Name] for [Case Type, e.g., Breach of Contract].
Context: Base the 'General Allegations' on the facts provided in /[Client_Intake_Memo.docx].
Structure: Organize the document with a standard Court Caption, Parties, Jurisdiction and Venue, Factual Allegations (numbered chronologically), and Causes of Action.
Claims: Include counts for [List Claims, e.g., 1. Breach of Contract; 2. Unjust Enrichment].
Prayer for Relief: Specifically request [e.g., Compensatory Damages, Attorney's Fees, and Pre-judgment Interest].
Requirements: Include a Jury Demand and ensure every paragraph is numbered sequentially. Maintain a formal, assertive tone.
For Answers to Complaints:
Use this to generate a rapid "first pass" of an Answer. This is most effective when you have the Plaintiff's Complaint open.
Draft an Answer to the Complaint in [Case Name/Number] by referencing /[Plaintiffs_Complaint.docx].
Responses: For each numbered paragraph in the Complaint, provide a corresponding response:
Admit purely jurisdictional or identity facts.
Deny substantive allegations of wrongdoing.
State 'Lack of knowledge or information' for facts outside the Defendant's direct control.
Affirmative Defenses: Draft a section for Affirmative Defenses, including [e.g., Statute of Limitations, Failure to Mitigate, and Waiver].
Counterclaims: [If applicable] Include a counterclaim for [Specific Claim] based on [Specific Fact].
Constraint: Do not admit any allegation involving liability or damages without a bracketed note: [COUNSEL: CONFIRM ADMISSION].
Discovery and Transactional Document Prompts for Copilot
Copilot excels at converting unstructured information—such as email threads or handwritten notes—into formal legal requests and agreements. These prompts ensure your discovery is targeted and your engagement letters are protective.
Use this to move beyond "canned" discovery and generate requests specific to the claims in your case.
Act as a litigation associate. Draft [Number] Interrogatories and [Number] Requests for Production for a [Case Type] in [Jurisdiction].
Context: Focus on the core issues identified in /[Complaint.docx].
Key Categories: Include requests for (1) Identification of all individuals with knowledge of [Topic]; (2) All internal and external communications regarding [Event/Date]; and (3) Financial records pertaining to [Specific Loss/Damage].
Standard: Ensure all requests are proportional to the needs of the case under [e.g., FRCP 26(b)(1)].
Format: Include standard definitions and instructions at the beginning. Number all requests sequentially.
Use this to "triage" an incoming discovery set. It is most effective when you have your client's fact summary open.
Draft responses to the /[Discovery_Requests.docx] based on the facts provided in /[Client_Fact_Summary.docx].
Structure: For each request, provide a response that follows this pattern: (1) General and Specific Objections; (2) A substantive response based on available information; and (3) A statement regarding the search for responsive documents.
Objections: Automatically suggest relevant objections for [e.g., Attorney-Client Privilege, Overly Broad, or Undue Burden] where appropriate.
Boilerplate: Include a standard Preface regarding the 'ongoing investigation' and 'reservation of rights to supplement.'
Flags: If a request cannot be answered without further client input, insert: [ATTORNEY FOLLOW-UP REQUIRED].
Prompt 9: Legal Engagement & Retainer Agreements
Use this to ensure your "Scope of Services" is airtight, reducing the risk of future malpractice or fee disputes.
Draft a [Practice Area, e.g., Commercial Litigation] Engagement Letter between [Firm Name] and [Client Name] for [Matter Description].
Scope of Work: Clearly define the tasks included. Explicitly list [Exclusions, e.g., Appeals or Tax Advice] as being outside the scope.
Fee Structure: Set the rate at [$X/hour] with a required retainer of [$X]. Include a section on billing frequency and 'Right to Terminate' for non-payment.
Compliance: Include a Conflicts Disclosure statement and a section on Client Responsibilities (e.g., providing honest and timely information).
Reference: Use /[Firm_Standard_Terms.docx] for all boilerplate regarding file retention and dispute resolution between firm and client.
Client Communication and Letter Drafting Prompts for Copilot
Outlook Copilot enables effortless collaboration across teams with professional client communications. These prompts help lawyers draft clear correspondence efficiently.
Prompt 10: Demand Letter Drafting
Act as a senior partner drafting a Demand Letter from [Our Client] to [Opposing Party] regarding [Dispute Type, e.g., Unpaid Invoices].
Context: Reference the timeline of events found in /[Evidence_Folder] or /[Contract.docx].
Structure: Organize by: (1) Factual Background; (2) Detailed Breach Analysis; (3) Itemized Damages totaling [Amount]; and (4) A final 'Notice to Cure' with a deadline of [Date].
Tone: [Firm but Professional / Formal and Warning].
Requirement: Explicitly state the legal consequences of non-compliance, including the preservation of evidence for potential litigation. Avoid generic threats; cite specific contract sections from the reference file.
Prompt 11: Client Advisory Letter Drafting
Draft a Legal Advisory Letter to [Client Name] regarding [Legal Issue].
Audience Profile: [Layperson / Business Owner / In-house Counsel]. Adjust the use of legal terminology accordingly.
Content: Provide a plain-language summary of the issue, followed by a Table of Options comparing 3 potential paths: [Path A, B, and C].
Analysis: For each path, list one 'Key Benefit' and one 'Significant Risk.'
Recommendation: Provide a clear recommendation based on the risk profile discussed in /[Recent_Meeting_Notes.docx].
Constraint: Keep the total length under 600 words to ensure readability.
Prompt 12: Status Update and Case Summary Drafting
Prepare a Status Update Email for [Matter Name].
Information Source: Summarize the key developments found in the [Last 5-10 emails in this thread].
Formatting: Use bold headings and bullet points for:
Recent Wins/Developments: (What happened since the last update?)
Current Stage: (Where are we in the litigation/transaction lifecycle?)
Upcoming Deadlines: (Specific dates the client needs to know.)
Action Items for Client: (What do you need from them right now?)
Tone: Professional, proactive, and brief. End with a one-sentence 'Next Steps' from the firm's perspective.
Advanced Copilot Prompts for Complex Documents
Microsoft Copilot also handles sophisticated, multi-section documents. These prompts enable you to use Copilot to organize complex thoughts and ensure no standard provision is overlooked. You maintain absolute control over the final legal conclusion.
Use this to synthesize complex research into a standard office memo format.
Act as a senior associate drafting a Legal Memorandum analyzing [Legal Issue].
Sources: Base the analysis on the research notes in /[Research_File.docx] and the facts in /[Fact_Summary.docx].
Organize into (1) Question Presented; (2) Brief Answer; (3) Statement of Facts; (4) Discussion/Analysis; and (5) Conclusion.
In the Discussion section, apply [Specific Statute/Rule] to the facts. Explicitly include a subsection for Counterarguments and another for Distinguishing Contrary Authority (specifically [Case Name]).
Citations: Use Bluebook format for all placeholders. If the provided research is insufficient to answer a sub-issue, do not extrapolate; instead, insert: [NEED ADDITIONAL RESEARCH ON X].
Prompt 14: Settlement Agreement and Release Drafting
Use this to ensure a General Release is truly comprehensive and protects the client from future litigation.
Draft a Settlement Agreement and Release of All Claims between [Party A] and [Party B] regarding [Dispute Description]. Specify a payment of [$Amount] to be paid by [Date] via [Wire/Check].
Scope of Release: Draft a 'General Release' that is as broad as permitted under [Jurisdiction] law, covering all known and unknown claims. Reference [e.g., California Civil Code Section 1542] if applicable.
Include a strict confidentiality provision with a liquidated damages clause of [$Amount] for breach of the non-disclosure terms. Include Non-Admission of Liability, Mutual Non-Disparagement, Choice of Law ([State]), and Entire Agreement clauses.
Format: Use hierarchical numbering and bold section headings.
Prompt 15: Opinion Letter Drafting
Use this to draft the shell of a third-party opinion, ensuring all standard qualifications are included.
Prepare a Legal Opinion Letter regarding [e.g., the Enforceability of Loan Documents] for [Addressee].
Scope: This is a [Third-Party Closing Opinion/Due Diligence Opinion] governed by the laws of [State].
Foundational Sections: Include (1) Documents Examined; (2) Factual Assumptions (e.g., 'we have assumed the genuineness of all signatures'); and (3) The Opinion (e.g., 'the documents are valid, binding, and enforceable').
Qualifications: List standard qualifications, including [Bankruptcy/Insolvency Exceptions and Equitable Principles Limitations].
Tone: Extremely formal and precise.
Disclaimer: Include a 'Reliance' section specifying exactly who is permitted to rely on this opinion and for what purpose.
Best Practices for Using Copilot in Legal Drafting
Microsoft 365 provides real-time context-aware suggestions and respects Microsoft 365 permissions and document access controls. Boosting professional productivity requires these practices:
Always review and customize AI-generated drafts: Every draft needs your legal judgment. Copilot generates starting points, not finished work.
Verify all legal citations and statutory references: Microsoft Copilot can "hallucinate" (fabricate) case names, docket numbers, and statutory language. Never copy-paste a citation from Copilot into a court filing without verifying it in a primary legal database (Westlaw, LexisNexis, or Fastcase).
Protect client confidentiality in your prompts: Client data must stay within the firm's secure environment. Confirm with your IT manager that you are using the Enterprise version of Microsoft 365 Copilot. Avoid using specific client names or highly sensitive "trade secret" facts in prompts if you are unsure of your current license’s privacy settings. Use placeholders like "[Party A]" or "[Confidential Product X]" instead.
Use Copilot with Microsoft 365 securely: Work with your IT manager to configure enterprise-grade security settings. Proper configuration (via Microsoft Purview) ensures that your firm’s internal data stays within your "tenant" and isn't leaked to other firms or the public.
This is only practical for Microsoft 365 Copilot (Enterprise). The free version of Copilot may use your prompts to train its model, which would violate Model Rule 1.6 (Confidentiality).
Document your drafting process for file records: Record your workflow for file documentation and quality assurance.
Iterate and refine drafts using multiple prompts. Don’t give up. Copilot improves with iteration.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Copilot for Drafting
One of the most common mistakes when using Copilot for drafting is accepting the first draft without lawyer review. Never finalize a document without a thorough review and verification. Case citations may be fabricated. Copilot handles mechanics.
Another error is assuming Copilot possesses jurisdictional knowledge. Copilot might draft a "market standard" clause that is actually unenforceable in your specific state (e.g., non-compete laws in California vs. Texas). Similarly, Copilot does not always know the specific formatting rules (margins, font, page limits) for every local court. Always perform a final "Local Rules" check.
How Spellbook Delivers a Superior Legal Drafting Experience
Copilot is a general-purpose AI that requires you to be a skilled prompt engineer for drafting tasks. You iteratively craft instructions. You format everything. You hope it understands legal requirements.
Spellbook eliminates all of that.
Spellbook is pre-optimized for legal document creation, with built-in legal knowledge and drafting expertise.
Spellbook works with existing law firm workflows without platform switching. Built specifically for legal work, it automatically understands contract drafts, clauses, and negotiable standards. No trial-and-error with prompts. No hoping that your AI understands "indemnification clauses."
For general counsel, legal tech managers, and law firm partners who want efficient document automation without the headache of prompt engineering, Spellbook is the solution.
Is Microsoft Copilot Secure for Drafting Confidential Legal Documents?
Yes, provided you use the correct version. The free and "Pro" versions of Copilot may use your data to train the model, which violates the duty of confidentiality. However, Microsoft 365 Copilot (Enterprise) provides "Enterprise Data Protection" (EDP). In this tier, your data stays within your firm's "tenant," is encrypted, and is never used to train the global model. Always confirm with IT that you are logged into your Enterprise account before inputting client facts.
Can I Trust Copilot's Legal Citations in Drafted Documents?
No. Copilot can fabricate case names, misstate legal holdings, and cite non-existent court decisions. These AI hallucinations often sound legitimate but don't exist. Independently verify every citation using a primary legal research tool (e.g., Westlaw or Lexis) before filing any document with a court.
How Much Time Can Copilot Save on Legal Document Drafting?
Expect to save half the time on initial drafting for routine documents. A standard motion that took 4 hours may now take 2.
What Types of Legal Documents Work Best With Copilot?
Copilot handles routine, structured documents well. Examples include standard contracts, form motions, discovery requests, engagement letters, and client correspondence.
Do I Need to Disclose Copilot Use to Clients or Courts?
It depends. Many judges have issued Standing Orders requiring lawyers to file a "Certificate of AI Disclosure" if AI was used to draft any part of a filing. Always check your local rules. While you generally don't need to disclose every tool you use to clients, the ABA (Formal Opinion 512) suggests disclosure is required if:
The client's confidential data is being processed by the AI.
The use of AI significantly changes how you are billing for the matter.
The client explicitly asks or has guidelines against AI use.
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