Ten-Step Guide to Oral Argument for Junior Attorneys

Abstract:     
Junior attorneys are often eager to step into court to argue. Before doing so, attorneys must understand what is necessary to argue effectively. A compelling oral argument must be persuasive, and it requires preparation and precision. This article provides a ten-step outline for oral argument that will enable a junior attorney to maximize the opportunity to argue in court and to represent the client’s interests to the best of his or her ability. It discusses, among other things, preparing counter-arguments, dealing with the judge, providing legal authority for the judge's ruling, avoiding legalease, making specific points during the argument, practicing the arguments, and being professional.

Number of Pages in PDF File: 1

Keywords: oral argument, persuasion, junior attorneys, professional

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