Facilitator Guide

Argument Section of a Brief

Facilitator Guide

Argument Section of a Brief

Topic: Motion Practice
Duration: 1 hr
Format: Remote or in person

What’s covered

Sequencing your arguments
Drafting headings
Structuring each point in the argument section
Tips for citing to authority
Framing the rule of law
Applying the rule of law to your facts

Before the session

Prepare the Attendees

Send the attendees an invitation for the session. Include this link, which has the videos and exercise they’ll need to prepare.

https://www.hotshotlegal.com/trainings/argument-section-of-a-brief/attendee

Prepare Yourself

Watch the videos and read the exercise so you’re familiar with the Hotshot material.

Course

Argument Section of a Brief

Structuring the argument, ways to present and argue legal authorities, tips for integrating facts and legal argument, and other drafting strategies.
Exercise
PDF

During the session

Part 1: Knowledge Check

Ask attendees these questions to ensure they understand the topic:

What are some things you consider when sequencing your arguments in your brief?
What purpose do headings serve in your brief?
What structure should each point in your argument section follow?
What are some important considerations in framing the rule of law? In applying it?
What are some ways to effectively cite to authority?
What are some ways to distinguish negative cases?

Part 2: Group Exercise

Lead a group discussion based on the exercise. To encourage collaboration, divide the attendees into groups to discuss the exercise, then have a representative from each group summarize their views to the larger group. Call on people to share their thoughts and ask others to respond.

Tip for remote sessions: use your web conferencing system’s breakout room feature to divide people into groups.

Part 3: War Stories and Firm Specifics

Share your own experiences and guidance, including:

Anecdotes and war stories (e.g., about a near-disaster or a tough negotiation)
General practice tips (dos and don’ts)
Firm-specific guidance and practices

After the session

To continue their learning, attendees can check out related courses in Hotshot’s Motion Practice topic.

About Hotshot

Hotshot helps lawyers develop their legal, business, and technology skills through short videos, quizzes, and summaries, and we help law firms and law schools plan and deliver engaging training programs. Our customers include Am Law 200 firms, top law schools, and regional and international firms.