Author Description

Learning the skills of trial practice should not mislead a student into believing that "it's nothing more than a game." Trial work represents the resolution of human conflict in a fair and civilized manner. The pursuit of justice, and the lawyer's responsibility to assist a client in the achievement of that end, remain the ultimate goals for the skilled trial lawyer. Trial is more than a game. It is a microcosmic picture of the way in which our society values life, liberty and property. As guardians of our legal system, trial lawyers must act ethically to insure the system works as designed. Trial Practice weaves those themes throughout its coverage of the necessary litigation skills, from jury selection and opening statements, to direct and cross examination, to exhibits and objections, to closing arguments. The updated appendix includes 2002 Federal Rules of Evidence and the proposed amendments effective December 1, 2003, and December 1, 2004.