We are rewarded in school for using sentences so complex, that the reader or listener is virtually tortured by them. As grown up lawyers this means we tend to spout legalese to normal people. How as trial lawyers do we shrug off these intellectual habits. So we can tell a good story.
Look at these tips from C.S. Lewis (he of The Chronicles of Narnia fame). This is taken from a letter he wrote to a young Fan in 1956.
Read MoreI had one night to come up with a speech. it was our trial lawyer's annual convention. And I needed to fill in for a sick speaker. That evening on the treadmill the speech came together. Now a decade or so later, here is a blog version of The "P"s.
Read MoreSuitcase is packed. We are out the door on the way to the airport. Cristina says - did you see the weather report. Um, no Robert said it was in the mid 70s. Seems a cool front is blowing in so minus that by at least 10. I've packed shorts sandles, and a short skirt to give my talk in. Oh great.
Read MoreAm in Louisville, Kentucky preparing to give a speech at their annual convention. Two people have randomly greeted me in passing and said "you have a hard act to follow - all the speakers have been great." Should have known this would be prophetic.
Do not like to give recycled speeches. Do not like to memorize anything. Need to FEEL in order for the words to flow well. Lately have been interested in exploring how to reach jurors regardless of their political or religious leanings. Accessing shared core human values. So the topic is a bit obtuse. Particularly where here, am not teaching how to do something in particular - like give an opening or closing statement.
Read MoreAm being good patient non-wiggling member of audience at the convention. For several hours. It is the Luvera Seminar without Luvera (dear Paul please get well). Another Paul (Stritmatter) my partner, is playing the role of host to a rapid fire panel of speakers.
Paul tells a story to illustrate the point that jurors always like him the best of anyone in the courtroom. He says he works hard to be professional and nice and liked the best. And over time whether inside or outside of the courtroom, it is a habit that has stuck. He is a very pleasant and likeable fellow.
Read MoreHave to resist rolling eyes when people say: so you're going to wing it. In mind see chicken flapping wings with feathers flying everywhere.
Have finished lovely run. Am a bit late so go directly to the seminar registration desk and pick up materials. Head to elevator on way to room for a bit of a wash and change.
Read MoreHow can trial lawyers be such bad public speakers.
Oh, this is a snarky topic. Should not be critical of people who volunteer their time and talent to help others . Is there a benefit in publicly venting in this way. Tsk tsk.
Am here at the AAJ convention in NYC. Sitting in seminar and am only not bored, because am engaging in self-indulgent venting.
Read MoreIf you are sitting in the audience, watching yourself give a presentation, would you be inspired and eager to hear more? Let's be frank here.
There is a tendency to focus on pleasing ourselves when we give a speech. Maybe it's because we need to do everything possible not to show our fear. Or we are trying to look good and smart. When we focus on self, we channel our energy and efforts away from our audience. In return, our audience will go to sleep.
Read MoreThese are the bones of an inspirational speech I've given a few times to trial lawyer associations. The Ps inspire me and hopefully they will do the same for you. Please add to this list and pass it on to another trial lawyer.
Passion - The ability to throw oneself head first into a cause with heart, mind, body and soul. Strangers who observe you can see the energy, dedication and belief emanating from your pores. Without passion we cannot advocate.
Read MoreWell, I'm supposed to speak tomorrow morning on an insurance bad faith issue. My buddy Pat actually wrote my paper for me because I was in trial at the time it was due. On the sidewalk last night we talk about what I'm going to say. Heck I have not a clue. Pat's the program moderator which means he's not officially speaking.
Read MoreI'm speaking today at a seminar for AAJ in Chicago. I've been watching the speakers and have a co-presenter, Tony. They are all whip smart and articulate. But there is one behavior pattern they share. They are so stern faced. So serious. They believe in what they are saying. They want to communicate their position, their passion. Their words are spoken emphatically and with precision. The audience mirrors back the gravity of the occasion.
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