For Trial Lawyers: 

Harry has tried over 100 jury cases.  His knowledge of what is appropriate in the courtroom setting makes him an effective trainer for lawyers.

Combining courtroom experience with vocal and physical techniques from his training and experience as a working actor on stage, television, and film, he teaches persuasive use of voice and body in a trial or hearing setting.

 


His three areas of focus:

vocal techniques'

body language; and

improvisation skills.

 

Learning to incorporate these three areas into your presentation allows the lawyer to move around the courtroom with greater comfort, gain a psychological advantage over the opponent, and become a more persuasive advocate in presentation.

 


See, for example, the following:

The Total Communicator's article "There's a Message in Your Voice" 

Trial Magazine article "Winning Trials Nonverbally" 

For more on the use of improvisation, see the material under the Generally Speaking tab.  

 


For Appellate Lawyers: 

Harry's appellate practice has been a large component of his practice for 25 years and he has presented oral argument frequently. He has argued in both state and federal appellate courts. 

A good oral argument can dictate the result in an appellate case. Conrad L. Rushing, appellate justice in California's Sixth Judicial District, explains how a good oral argument can win your case.  

Justice Conrad Rushing on oral argument.

 


The appellate advocate's best weapon (other than briefing of course) is the voice.       

Do you:

vocally warm up before you enter the courtroom--essential for the success of your argument and the health of your voice--and especially important given how long you may have to sit in silence in the courtroom; 

physically warm-up, as important for the voice as for the body; and,

practice techniques of voice and body use--as well as your argument--because being natural requires practice, practice, practice. 

 

The podium limits your movement--but you can use gestures, body language, and the limited movement available to you to be a more persuasive advocate.

 


The Work: 

Through use of videotaped sessions, Harry helps you recognize the issues that prevent you from being a better and more persuasive communicator. 

Through use of exercises and practice, Harry gives you tools to make the changes that will make you a better advocate. 

Like athletes and entertainers, lawyers must think on their feet and make adjustments on the fly.  Warm up as they do--instead of just downing a large coffee and a donut or two. 

Assuming adequate preparation, the inability to use your voice and body stops you from being the most persuasive advocate you can be.

Regardless of your level of experience, Harry can give you simple tips to make you a more effective trial or appellate advocate.