The Limitations of Persuasion: Know Them and Use Them

Much as been written about the art and science of persuasion and how attorneys can utilize persuasion principles to better represent their clients. Essentially, persuasion is the ability to change a person’s behavior or beliefs about a certain position. Some have even called persuasion the psychology of why people say "yes" – and as zealous advocates for our clients persuasion can be an invaluable tool.

In this excellent course, Chris Arledge delves into the power and limitations of persuasion and teaches attorneys how to deploy persuasive techniques in their everyday practice. You will learn the four main principles of persuasion and how to use these principles to become a skilled persuader and a better legal practitioner. Further issues discussed by Mr. Arledge include the public’s perception of attorneys, avoiding the trap of demonizing the opposition, remembering your primary goal, reciprocity, authenticity, communicating with individuals, the four benefits of story, being cognizant of roles, miscasting yourself & clients, persuading the jury, building your case around an underlying value, consistency, timing and understanding the jury.

Christopher W. Arledge is a co-founder and managing partner of One LLP. His primary focus at One LLP is intellectual property litigation, particularly disputes over copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. In recent years, he has handled disputes involving the intellectual property of celebrities like Madonna, Don Henley, Kobe Bryant, Bette Davis, and Perez Hilton. Lawyers are called, above all, to persuade, and Chris therefore studies and teaches the principles of persuasion. He has taught the Art of Persuasion at Chapman Law School and has lectured on persuasion to some of the largest, most prestigious professional firms in the country, including Munger Tolles, O’Melveny, Jones Day, and Deloitte. Chris has polished his advocacy skills outside the courtroom as well, participating in speaking engagements and debates sponsored by groups such as the American Bar Association, the Federal Bar Association, the University of Southern California, Chapman Law School, Whittier Law School, the Anti-Defamation League, California Lawyers for the Arts, and various Inns of Court and local bar associations, and by serving as a legal expert on a number of nationally syndicated radio programs.

Practice Areas: Bankruptcy | Business Law | Criminal Law | Employment Law | Family Law | Intellectual Property | Litigation | Personal Injury | Trusts and Estates

State Accreditations: California (CA)