Trial Advocacy

Book excerpt: Explains how to prepare a case for trial by identifying historical factual propositions that satisfy applicable legal elements; identifying evidence and inferences tending to prove or disprove the crucial factual propositions in a case; organizing evidence into persuasive arguments, whether the evidence is disputed or undisputed or suggests an implausibility in a witness' story; and understanding the influence of "silent arguments" and taking advantage of or countering such arguments. Illustrates interrelationship among evidence, argument, and technique. Sets forth and illustrates trial techniques so advocates can persuasively communicate their arguments to judges and jurors.