What should be included in the oral argument introduction?

What should be included in the oral argument introduction?

• A. A long narrative.
• B. Directly state the relief sought.
• C. Opening with a joke.
• D. May it please the court and introduce counsel.

Answer: (D)

Starting an oral argument with a respectful address to the court and a clear introduction of who is speaking is the standard and most effective way to begin. Saying “May it please the court” signals proper decorum and readiness to proceed, and introducing counsel identifies the representative for the client and who the court should expect to hear from. This sets the tone, helps the judges know who is presenting the case, and provides a orderly, professional start to the argument. Long narratives waste valuable time and can blur the focus of the introduction. Opening with a joke is inappropriate in a serious appellate setting and undermines credibility. Directly stating the relief sought is usually more appropriately handled within the body of the argument or in the issues/summary portion, not the ceremonial opening of the session.

Starting an oral argument with a respectful address to the court and a clear introduction of who is speaking is the standard and most effective way to begin. Saying “May it please the court” signals proper decorum and readiness to proceed, and introducing counsel identifies the representative for the client and who the court should expect to hear from. This sets the tone, helps the judges know who is presenting the case, and provides a orderly, professional start to the argument.

Long narratives waste valuable time and can blur the focus of the introduction. Opening with a joke is inappropriate in a serious appellate setting and undermines credibility. Directly stating the relief sought is usually more appropriately handled within the body of the argument or in the issues/summary portion, not the ceremonial opening of the session.