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Author: Paul Luvera

Luvera practiced plaintiff law 55 years. He is past President of the Inner Circle of Advocates & Washington State Trial Lawyers Association. Member ABOTA, American College of Trial Lawyers, International Academy, International Society of Barristers and the American Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame. Book Luvera on Advocacy available at Trial Guides Publishing Email paul@luvera.org
APPEALS TO COMMON SENSE MAKE NO SENSE BECAUSE COMMON SENSE ISN’T COMMON

APPEALS TO COMMON SENSE MAKE NO SENSE BECAUSE COMMON SENSE ISN’T COMMON

Today I’d like you to consider the over used phrase “common sense” which we use all the time in our daily communications and in trials.  You’ve heard the insistence that the answer is simple because it is just “common sense”  The claims are:  “Everyone knows it.” “It goes without saying.” “It makes total sense.” “Even my little sister could understand that.”“It’s just common sense.”  “What do you mean? It makes total sense!”“How do I know? It’s obvious! Even a child could understand it.”  Everyone talks…

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SOME RANDOM IDEAS FOR TRIAL PERSUASION

SOME RANDOM IDEAS FOR TRIAL PERSUASION

Dr. Amy Singer has been recognized as an outstanding trial consultant for many years. Her firm, trial consultants Inc., www.trialconsultants.com has worked with plaintiff attorneys throughout the country. Dr. Singer and I worked on many trials in the past and the wisdom of her advice is still valid. Here are some random notes from our collaboration for your consideration. Intangible Damage Formula She suggests this formula for the calculation of non-economic damages: apply the juror’s personal concerns and interests to…

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NEGOTIATION AS TAUGHT BY DONALD TRUMP

NEGOTIATION AS TAUGHT BY DONALD TRUMP

In his own uniquely modest way, President-elect Trump has said: “Our country needs a truly great leader, and we need a truly great leader now. We need a leader that wrote The Art of the Deal” which, of course was a book he wrote.  In fact his 1987 book has sold over 1 million copies. He says that his style of deal making is simple and straightforward: “I aim very high, and then I just keep pushing and pushing to…

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