Writing the Trial Court Decision

Judges might manage different kinds of cases and varying size caseloads, but they all decide motions and preside over trials. And they all have the need to issue prompt decisions that demonstrate impartiality, clarity, competence, and fair consideration of the facts and law.

Writing the Trial Court Decision is a practical handbook to help judicial officers determine the contours and tone of those decisions, the appropriate length, and the best shape and structure. To illuminate the discussion, the author includes voluminous illustrations of clear and thoughtful writing:

• Citations to public domain decisions;


• Samples of real and fictional decisions built into the text itself; and


• Additional supplemental decisions available as downloadable appendices.