The importance of metaphors to trial lawyers

The importance of metaphors to trial lawyers

George Lakoff is a Professor of Linguistics at the University of California, Berkeley. He has previously taught at Harvard University and is a well known authority in linguistics. He has written several books and is associated with the Rockridge Institute who offer internet information on the subject of language and communications. Lakoff wrote a book, Metaphors We Live By along with co author Mark Johnson. Lakoff confirms what research has demonstrated, that reality is defined by metaphor. Metaphors are part…

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Some simple ideas for voir dire

Some simple ideas for voir dire

At a recent trial lawyer’s convention I attended in Boston I wrote down some ideas speakers suggested regarding jury selection. One lawyer from New Mexico gave a great talk about questions which put the jurors in the shoes of your client and help them become involved in the situation so they have personal concern. In defending a client accused of murder when she shot an ex husband who had come into her home at night she asked questions like: :…

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Books worth reading

Books worth reading

Here are four books every trial lawyer should be familiar with. The first, Words that Work by Frank Luntz is written by the long time adviser to the National Republican party and confidant of Karl Rove. The master of Republican framing has written a book that trial lawyers need to read and contains words trial lawyer need to use. Don’t Think of An Elephant by George Lakoff is written by the leading U.S. expert on framing. A friend of the…

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