In their professional lives courtroom lawyers must do these two things well: speak persuasively and write persuasively. In this noteworthy book, two of the most noted legal writers of our day Justice Antonin Scalia and Bryan A. Garner systematically present every important idea about judicial persuasion in a fresh, entertaining way. Making Your Case: The Art of Persuading Judges is a guide for novice and experienced litigators alike. It covers the essentials of sound legal reasoning, including how to develop the syllogism that underlies any argument. From there the authors explain the art of brief-writing, especially what to include and what to omit, so that you can induce the judge to focus closely on your arguments. Finally, they show what it takes to succeed in oral argument. The opinions of Justice Scalia are legendary for their sharp insights, biting wit, and memorable phrasing. The writings of Bryan A. Garner, editor in chief of Black s Law Dictionary®, are respected inside and outside legal circles for their practical guidance on the art of writing and advocacy. Together the Scalia-Garner team has produced a fresh, innovative approach to a timeless topic.

Customer Rating:
Summary: Making Your Case
Comment: I could not find this book locally. I gave it to my boss as a Christmas present, as he is an attorney and he really was surprised and liked it.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: A glimpse of litigation lingo
Comment: Bought this book for my son who is an attorney. I admire Judge Scalia and hopefully my son will find this book informative.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Ah Scalia
Comment: Justice Scalia is one of the most controversial justices of our time, and is not shy about sharing his views, whether you like it or not. I don't agree with him on most of his points, but I do enjoy his writings and speeches. He spends time thinking about what he believes in and why, long before he speaks. So even if you disagree with him, his reasoning is clear, well thought out, and thought provoking.

Having said that this book is flavored by Scalia's personality, but what he is saying is often correct. This is a book that law student should read, unfortunately this book has been written in response to the actions of practicing lawyers. Reading it makes me wonder what it is that law schools are teaching lawyers, the advice in this book seems to be common sense.

The book is an easy read and any person, layman, student, lawyer will be able to read this book and gain a better understanding of good writing, speaking, and research skills. I found my self even laughing out loud at some of the stories, and comments. I love all the quotes from prominent lawyers, and justices which are found through out the book.

I only gave this book four stars because I felt that although it is a well written, it fell short of the skill and depth that Justice Scalia is capable of. I have no argument with those who give it 5 stars, for all most anyone else it would be a 5 star work.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: Textbook
Comment: This book is written for the first year law student and not an average lay reader. Reads like a textbook.

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Customer Rating:
Summary: The Bible of Brief Writing
Comment: I'll be brief (no pun intended). If you are a lawyer or law student who wants to write better and more persuasive briefs - buy or borrow this book! I've completely changed my legal writing style after reading Judge Scalia and Garner's book.

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