how should an attorney handle citations in his opposition brief

by Maude Towne 7 min read

How do you write to an opposing attorney?

Apr 24, 2012 · Cites to the record use an “R. at page number” format. Example: R. at 5. or (R. at 5.) If the citation refers to the entire sentence, it comes after the period in the sentence. Place a period before the end parenthesis. Refer to B7.1.4 regarding citation with PACER/ECF. Example: The Plaintiff was driving a blue Ford.

How do you write an opposition to a motion?

Jun 01, 2019 · The answer may seem counterintuitive to some, but the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct provides a clear requirement: Attorneys must cite directly adverse legal authority controlling in the...

When should the opposing party file a brief?

For state attorneys, that means briefs in opposition to . in forma pauperis. cert petitions. In such briefs, both underlining and italics are acceptable. 40768-aap_19-1 Sheet No. 70 Side B 11/20/2018 11:50:28 ... Nor should you cite the reporters, federal …

Can a motion be cited in a brief?

Jun 02, 2020 · Civility lies at the core of the legal profession. The legal profession expects every lawyer to act with the utmost courtesy both in and outside the court. There is always a temptation to throw civility out of the window and display aggressive behavior towards an opposing counsel. Big mistake! In dealing with difficult attorneys, learn to be civil.

What is an opposition brief?

Opposing counsel may serve an opposition brief containing a statement of reasons why the motion should be denied, along with supporting authorities. If the moving party filed a brief, the opposing party should file an opposing brief, unless its defense is based solely on factual matters that can be covered in affidavits and appendices.

What is a memorandum of law in New York?

In New York practice, “brief” and “memorandum of law” are used interchangeably to refer to the document providing legal authority and argument in support of a motion. In New York state courts, the moving party is not required to file a memorandum of law or brief in support of a motion, but should generally do so.

Is an attorney an officer of the court?

Lawyers are often viewed primarily as advocates unilaterally pursuing their client’s positions in court, but they are also officers of the court. “As an officer of the court, the attorney has the duty of candor,” says Susan Saab Fortney, a professor and director of the Program for the Advancement of Legal Ethics at Texas A&M University School ...

What is the role of an attorney in a controlling case?

An attorney researches a legal question and finds a controlling case that is adverse to her client’s position. Surprisingly, the opposing counsel neglects to cite the case to the court in her pleadings.

What is the role of lawyers in the legal system?

Lawyers are often viewed primarily as advocates unilaterally pursuing their client’s positions in court, but they are also officers of the court. “As an officer of the court, the attorney has the duty of candor,” says Susan Saab Fortney, ...

Why is disclosure of adverse authority important?

The duty to disclose adverse authority is considered an important one to help judges decide on cases based on precedent —serving the principle of stare decisis.”. The rule is part of the profession’s commitment that attorneys must follow the duty of candor to help the system find the truth.

Mistakes and Analysis

Below is an analysis of this letter, including commentary drawn from similar letters I have seen in my onsite seminars in "Claims Writing." These comments, on both writing and insurance issues, aim to help you spot pitfalls in your own letters and those of your colleagues.

Avoiding an Adversarial Tone

Here are a few tips on tone to help prevent this type of inappropriate tone.

Conclusion

Writing to an opposing attorney is never easy. You must weigh your words as carefully as any professional writer might in writing an article or essay. Your job is not just to win court cases, it is to maintain relationships and sell your settlements so that you never even get to court. This skill doesn't get much play in college writing courses.

How to deal with difficult lawyers?

In dealing with difficult attorneys, learn to be civil. When you are civil, you exert positive energy, felt not only by your opponents but also by the judge . Many lawyers on receiving correspondence from an opposing counsel will quickly put pen to paper and write a no-holds-barred letter in reply.

How to be proactive in a court case?

To be proactive, lawyers must have a plan of action and anticipate the next move of the opposing counsel, just like in a chess game. By preempting the moves of the lawyer on the other side, you will avoid delays caused by your opponent’s delayed actions.

What is the most stressful aspect of a lawyer's job?

According to some lawyers, dealing with a difficult opposing counsel is one of the most stressful aspects of their jobs. Since some opposing lawyers have formed the habit of aggression, it makes no sense trying to talk them out of it. Dealing with difficult attorneys requires tact. Habits, when formed and done repeatedly, are not easily broken.

What is civility in the legal profession?

Civility lies at the core of the legal profession. The legal profession expects every lawyer to act with the utmost courtesy both in and outside the court. There is always a temptation to throw civility out of the window and display aggressive behavior towards an opposing counsel. Big mistake!

How does being assertive help you?

Some research and studies have shown that being assertive reduces your stress and helps you deal with difficult situations. Assertive lawyers are rarely intimidated and can succinctly make their points without insulting the other side.

Which court has different rules for citations?

Specialized federal courts, such as the U.S. Bankruptcy Court or the U.S. Tax Court, have slightly different citation rules. Check the Table T.1 for guidance on how to cite to materials from such courts.

What are citation conventions?

Citation conventions for cases from general federal litigation courts, including U.S. Supreme Court, Courts of Appeal and District Courts are listed, as well as the rest of federal courts (such as specialized federal courts, including the U.S. Bankruptcy Court and the U.S. Tax Court).

What is Bluebook Rule 10?

Bluebook Rule 10 covers how cases should be cited in legal documents. Table T.1 includes the official names and legal citation abbreviations for federal and state reporters, and federal and state statutory compilations.

What is the Bluebook?

The Bluebook lists a regional reporter as each state's official reporter. These opinions are often issued from a state's highest court. A state's high court opinions are also published in the state's official reporter if the state publishes an official reporter.