Trial Advocacy Basics: Second Edition

Surely one of the most intimidating moments in your professional life is standing before a judge and jurors the morning of your very first trial. This is no mock trial: the stakes are high, and your client is counting on you. Are you ready?

Trial Advocacy Basics is a courtroom primer that helps both the novice advocate prepare for his first day in court and the practicing lawyer bring her skills in line with the most recent developments in trial advocacy. In the Second Edition of this law school classic, Molly Townes O'Brien and Gary Gildin provide the modern perspectives on both the style and substance of case analysis, case theory, cross-examination, impeachment, closing arguments, and presenting information using technologies. They break down the importance of finding a single factual story of the case, then explain how each aspect of the trial must contribute to that story. O'Brien and Gildin relate practical advice on every stage of trial preparation and practice in a straightforward manner, using memorable examples and anecdotes, colorful quotes, and humor to highlight each lesson.