RHETORIC AS A TOOL OF LEGAL ARGUMENTATION
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46991/FLSP.2025.25.093Keywords:
art of persuasion, lawyer’s speech, persuasion in practice, rhetoric, rhetorical meansAbstract
One of the fundamental purposes of communication is persuasion. For legal professionals, persuasive ability is not merely advantageous but essential, as case outcomes often hinge on it. Persuasion—understood as a refined art—is achieved through the strategic use of rhetorical techniques. To deliver compelling arguments, lawyers must develop rhetorical competence as well as a deep understanding of how to construct coherent, persuasive speeches. Opening statements and closing arguments, in particular, serve as crucial moments in which attorneys can appeal to the jury’s emotions.
This research examines theories on how rhetoric and persuasion contribute to effective legal discourse. Drawing on scholarly works in the field, the article applies cognitive and critical approaches to demonstrate the role of rhetoric in legal contexts. The findings suggest that understanding how rhetoric functions helps reveal the strategies and skills that underline persuasive courtroom advocacy.
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