Lawyers who tell good stories are the most successful advocates. Good lawyers can tell a complex legal case in easy-to-understand language. They can explain the sequence of events that led to a client’s position, whether they’re in the financial securities industry or a legal dispute. And, they can change the voices of key players to convey their point of view. Good lawyers can also make the case seem less intimidating by demonstrating how their client’s situation has affected their livelihoods.
Philip N. Meyer
The book, “Storytelling for Lawyers,” by Philip N. Meyer, explains why lawyers should tell stories and how to use storytelling in their careers. Meyer offers specific instructions for explaining the chain of events to juries and judges. He also discusses the importance of a lawyer’s background in the story. Using storytelling to present a case is a proven strategy for attracting clients. This book is essential reading for any lawyer who wants to improve their writing skills.
The first three chapters examine law stories as literary works. This is followed by supplemental literary examples, which demonstrate how legal stories break away from the linear chronology of real events. The book then discusses the features of narrative time and the importance of determining the chronological order of events. It also explains how to calibrate the time frame of the “discourse” in a story. Ultimately, storytelling for lawyers is a helpful guide to attorneys.
Pixar strategy
The storytelling process is a key element of Pixar’s success and a critical component of the company’s overall strategy. Pixar is a company that combines storytelling with technical expertise to create memorable experiences for its audiences. Lawyers who want to create stories for clients should take their cues from Pixar. Pixar has developed an in-house training program for lawyers based on the Pixar storytelling methodology.
The Pixar process consists of three distinct phases: storyboarding and pitching. Storyboarding allows Pixar to gather feedback, re-board the story, and seek input from a variety of stakeholders. Once a story is pitch-ready, the film moves to Editorial, where it is further refined with dialogue, music, and sound effects. After the first phase, the Editorial is responsible for determining the final timing of the film.
Changed voices
Changing voices in storytelling for lawyers is essential for enticing listeners into the story. A legal story is a powerful way to convey complex issues and how a case may affect people. Often, lawyers write in a single voice, but there are many effective ways to change voices and perspectives when telling a legal story. Here are some examples of effective storytelling for lawyers. You can use both passive and active voices to draw listeners into the story.
When lawyers are arguing cases in court, storytelling is one of the most important tools to use. Lawyers must remember the applicable rules of evidence, as well as rules of procedure while presenting their client’s story. A compelling narrative will persuade judges. Lawyers can also use storytelling techniques during plea bargaining and settlement negotiations. However, when using storytelling for lawyers, it is imperative to remember that lawyers are also artists.
Narrative perspective
Narrative perspective for lawyers may be used in court cases where the lawyer is trying to establish the truth of a client’s story. During a trial, lawyers may need to present a compelling argument to convince a jury. During the trial, the lawyer can use narrative mode during the closing argument. In the first example, the lawyer uses the question “All for frivolity?” to make the facts narrated in the orientation directly related.
When writing about your legal practice area, you may use a third-person perspective to emphasize your professional experience and qualifications. Writing about your own experience also allows you to sound more objective. In addition to the first-person perspective, the third-person point-of-view is a popular choice for attorneys. A lawyer can use it in court documents, as well as on the website. A lawyer can also use it in blogs and Q&A pages.
Brand story
One of the most important parts of any marketing campaign is the creation of a compelling brand story for lawyers. A story tells a client’s experience with the attorney and enables the firm to differentiate itself from other competitors. It should include the background of the firm, characters, challenges faced, and ultimate success. It should also explore the firm’s role in the community, its dedication to helping people, and how these benefits benefit the client.
To attract and retain new clients, law firms need to tell a compelling story that shows what they stand for, what makes them the best option for a specific client, and why they should hire them. Brand storytelling allows attorneys to put the ideal audience at the center of the story, a crucial component of successful marketing. While traditional marketing strategies focused on self-promotion, the most successful law firms put the ideal client at the center of their brand’s narrative.