Last week, an inquisitive 2L approached me about her upcoming oral argument. We spoke for a bit until it became clear to both of us that she did not really know what on Earth to do with her introduction sentence. She didn't know how to structure it or, more importantly, what particular functions it serves. Many law students and, likely, lawyers encounter this same stumbling block. I have been lucky enough to have participated in many moot court competitions before actually arguing before the California Court of Appeal three times (successfully) last summer. Through trials, errors, triumphs, and blunders, I have learned a thing or two about oral argument. One of the more important things that you can work on to focus your entire argument--not to mention direct the court to the point of your "presentation"--is the introduction. The introduction acts as a sturdy, no-nonsense frame. And it lets the court know that you know what the heck you're doing up there. Now, t...
Beyond the "whats" of law school and law practice more generally, here, the "hows" are explained, whether you need them during law school or many years thereafter.