Includes bibliographical references and index.

Introduction -- A brief history of oral argument in the Supreme Court -- Beginning the preparation process -- Types of questions commonly asked -- Moot courts -- After the moot courts : the final few days -- Basic approaches to oral argument -- Common mistakes in oral arguments -- Attributes of the best advocates -- Appendices. Checklists. Openings of petitioner/appellant. Openings of respondent/appellee. Model amicus openings. Examples of effective mid-argument advocacy techqniques. Model rebuttals. Table of West research guides -- Researching Supreme Court and appellate advocacy : mastering oral argument.