Through a series of case studies, practical exercises, and expert-led discussions, participants will explore key topics such as the standard of care in legal drafting, handling transactions with opposing brokers who fail to meet legal standards, and drafting counter offers that protect clients’ interests. The course also covers critical aspects of contract modifications, dealing with closing date crises, and ethical concerns in the drafting process, including avoiding lender fraud and understanding homeowner's insurance contingencies.

This course will equip brokers with the knowledge to navigate complicated legal scenarios with confidence, minimize risks associated with incompetent drafting, and avoid conflicts of interest when serving as both a broker and attorney in fact for clients. By the end of this course, brokers will have enhanced their drafting skills, making them better equipped to manage real estate transactions that require the highest levels of legal competence.

Students must take Draft Like a Lawyer before completing this class. 

Annie Fitzsimmons is the Washington REALTORS® Legal Hotline lawyer and has served the brokerage community in that capacity since 2001. Along with answering thousands of questions for REALTORS® every year, she develops curriculum, authors articles, makes educational videos, serves as a public speaker for industry partners, testifies and advises regarding legislation that will impact the delivery of real estate brokerage services, and maintains a strong working relationship with regulatory agencies. Without question, however, her favorite pursuit as the Washington REALTORS® Legal Hotline lawyer is working with brokers individually and in a classroom setting to strengthen each REALTOR's delivery of brokerage services so that they exceed the expectations of their clients, preserve earned income and increase the standing of the REALTOR® community in and around the state.
Annie graduated with honors from the University of Washington School of Law and then joined the Tacoma law firm of Gordon, Thomas, Honeywell where she practiced until becoming the Hotline lawyer. Prior to attending law school, Annie sold real estate with her parents' real estate firm in Lakewood, Washington. Suffice to say, Annie has loved and worked with REALTORS® nearly her entire life.