Lawyers Weekly Books

By Herbert J. Stern and Stephen J. Saltzburg

Here’s a new edition of one of the most brilliant and inspiring trial manuals ever written. The book explodes the many fallacies that are routinely taught in civil and criminal trial courses, and shows you how to powerfully persuade jurors every step of the way.

You’ll learn:

* Why 97% of what you’ve read about opening statement is wrong, and how to do it right.

* The #1 most important thing that must be established by your courtroom demeanor, and why.

* How to handle alternative arguments (e.g., arguing against liability while arguing damages), and why most lawyers shoot themselves in the foot

* A definitive answer to the “primacy vs. recency” debate (and you might be surprised by the result)

* Why it’s often good for you when your opponent objects

* Why you should never mention the burden of proof (except in one special case)

* The right way to use displays and illustrations

* A simple technique to turn weaknesses in your case into strengths

* How to make your own witnesses more credible to jurors, and how to emphasize their strong points without sounding repetitive

* Why most witness preparation is a complete waste of time, and how to do it right

* The surprising truth about the best order to present witnesses

* The real purpose of cross-examination, and why the “rules” about leading questions and always knowing the answer sometimes hurt your effectiveness

* Why you should cross-examine most witnesses even if they didn't hurt you

* Why so many lawyers over-authenticate exhibits – and offer them at the wrong time

* How to handle opposing witnesses who blurt out damaging comments during cross

* The main goal of closing argument (hint: it’s not to persuade the jurors)

“State of the art. The bible for all jury trial lawyers.” – Ted Wells, co-chair, litigation department, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison

One volume, hardbound, 414 pages. Published in 2013.