The Tools of Argument: How the Best Lawyers Think, Argue, and Win

A useful introduction to the argumentation tools and methods used in the legal profession. Plenty of noteworthy paragraphs to read again later.

This is an AMAZING book written by a professor of law who is clearly experienced in the art of litigation. The insight the book exhibits will provide for a highly fascinating read for anyone interested in the art of argument. The author sets out the many ways in which the same subject can be argued from differing angles and goes into depth with regard the many tools that can be used to accomplish this. I was so fascinated by this book, I am going to read it again and it will remain prominently on my book shelf as an excellent resource for when the next argument shows up in my life. I have found that our ability to argue equals our ability to survive in this world.. If you're ineffective at defending yourself the world will push you around. If you learn to stand up for yourself and fight back through the mechanism of elegant litigation, you can make the big bad wolf step away from your door and leave you in peace. This book will show you how to make a good start along that trajectory. In learning how to formulate good arguments, I have also made and saved money. I must admit, it is rather nice to enjoy an expensive cappucino seated on a veranda somewhere...knowing that your adversary has paid for it. I am neither a lawyer nor a student of law - just an ordinary guy interested in learning how to develop and defend arguments better than most people I will ever meet. In all litigation there is a case for the prosecution and a case for the defence, this book will help you in drawing your proverbial sword. If you're like me, you'll love this book.

A clear and insightful read, a good starter book for this arena.

I bought this for my son who is on the path to be a Barrister. This book outlines very good points of view and is explained in an easy to follow and comprehensible outline. Great book!

I'm not sure I learned anything new, but this is a terrific short introduction to, as the title says, the tools of argument, from the perspective of a good lawyer. Heartily recommended to everyone, but would be especially of use to law students and newly qualified lawyers.

Can’t really say much about books. Does exactly what it says it supposed to do in the blurb.And it could be the worst book in the world anyway if the smell of the pages that always gets me but ignoring the pages I can’t fault the book at all lots of technical jargon lots of nice and simple stuff for people like myself

A good read and quick refresher or reader on strategy an skills. I enjoyed the examples and wick snappy headlines.

Bit heavy but great if you are of a legal mind.

Nice Book, informative and very useful for students, lawyers and laypersons. Simple explaination of complex situations and legal terminology. must read

If you're a student, certainly it will enlighten; however, as a practitioner with years of experience it is less appealing.

Great read, not overly technical. Accessible summary of many core legal concepts. Tools are applicable in all areas of life. Will very much help a person to think critically and make strong, rational arguments.

Love the book! It’s a handy thing to read in your spare time, and has valuable insights that helps enhance your knowledge on the art of communicating

The best book for any person who wants to understand how American Courts work! At times we all ask questions like "How can this criminal get off on technicalities if it is obvious that he/she committed crime?", or "How can this be fair?" or "How can a lawyer defend this "bad guy/girl"? This is totally wrong! He/she is a criminal!" The author explains the difference between law and common sense, law and ethics, understanding of crime in legal terms and in laymen words.The book closely examines the logical reasoning of the law professionals , demonstrating the "tricks" used in court rooms. Fascinating reading!!! WARNING: the book will not prepare you to go to court and defend your case! This is not a "how-to" manual for folks who are planning to go to court. Hire a lawyer if need be. However, if you want to learn how to present and defend your point (any point, not just legal issues) as an intelligent and convincing person, this book is for you! Chances are, by the time you are done with debating your next case, your opponents will at least respect your opinion (or hate your guts, which still might give you some satisfaction). This book is for anyone who wants to boost up their skills in logical persuasion, finding loopholes in opponent's logical reasoning. Lots of interesting and valuable information for a pretty small price! It is written in a short and clear format: each chapter discusses specific idea, giving examples from court cases and average daily life (parent-child, husband-wife, employee-supervisor), concluding with a practical application summary argument vs. counterargument. So, no reason to read the entire book from beginning to end. One can just pick any chapter and read about how this or that legal (logical) rule can be applied in daily life.