Partner Yvette Davis is speaking on a panel during ALFA International’s International Client Seminar on March 5, 2022 in Cedar Creek, Texas. Her panel is, “THE FINAL ACT: Closing Argument: Ethos and Ethics.”
Program Description
As advocates and counselors, whether we are closing deals or making closing arguments, our job is to persuade clients, mediators, courts, and opposing attorneys and parties. One key to persuasion, according to Aristotle, is Ethos, which means demonstrating character and credibility, or “appealing to ethics.” But surprise, surprise, some stories are lies. Some lawyers can seem credible –
and appeal to ethics – even though they (or their clients or experts) are making stuff up. Is that OK? Is it actually part of our job? And whether it is or not, what is the best way to respond? Please help our panel grapple with the enigma of Ethos and ethics in some realworld scenarios.