Chris Arledge and Peter Afrasiabi, two experienced litigators and advocacy trainers, teach the fundamental principles of effective advocacy. Their book, “To Prove, To Please, To Move: Timeless Principles of Legal Advocacy” combines the insights of the ancients – including, especially, Marcus Tullius Cicero – and the best of modern scholarship.
The authors’ primary claim is that successful advocacy hinges on effective storytelling and credibility. The authors explain why storytelling is so central to advocacy, argue that lawyers must make storytelling their focus through all aspects of the litigation process, and explain how to incorporate effective storytelling into all aspects of trial and appeal.
The authors also explain why an advocate’s credibility matters so much, how advocates can boost their credibility, and how to avoid the common, credibility-destroying mistakes.
These principles are valuable for advocates who are just starting their careers, but the book also challenges experienced advocates to approach their jobs differently.
Access to the book can be found here: To Prove, To Please, To Move: Timeless Principles of Legal Advocacy
