Tag: Chinua Asuzu
Does mere entry in a dictionary qualify a word for use as defined or at all? The short answer is NO.
By Chinua Asuzu Most lexicographers, especially at descriptivist institutions like Merriam-Webster, don’t prescribe how language should be used.…
What’s the difference between _anticipate_ and _expect_? _By Chinua Asuzu
The verb _anticipate_ means “to take some action in preparation for or against what one is expecting.” _Anticipate_…
Preemptive Strikes in Advocacy By Chinua Asuzu
In advocacy, presenting only positive information and arguments can be “superficial, myopic, and, ultimately, unconvincing.” Kathryn M. Stanchi,…
Are your semantics on steroids?_By Chinua Asuzu_
Many users of the language indulge in what I call steroidal semantics: the hypercorrection of idioms, phrases, and…
Stop Shouting at Judges! By Chinua Asuzu
Far too many lawyers sabotage their voice by shouting on the page. They do this by abusing, misusing,…
Stop saying “case laws.” By Chinua Asuzu
It’s “caselaw,” or “case law”, not “case laws,” no matter how many cases you’re discussing. “Caselaw” is a…
In advocacy, advance both justifying and motivating arguments. By Chinua Asuzu
Justifying arguments are what most of us are used to. Let’s incorporate motivating arguments to augment and boost…
In briefs, fight tough, not rough. By Chinua Asuzu
In Engineering Enterprises v Attorney General of Kaduna State 2 NWLR (Part 57) 381 (SC), 413D–H, Oputa JSC…
To launch or defend against an appeal, consider these strategies: Chinua Asuzu
Effective appeal-strategy development calls for judgment, discipline, and courage on your part: the good judgment to choose the…
Chinua Asuzu: Who are you to order a judge to “see” or “see also” anything?
In written advocacy, hesitate to direct the judge to go see or see also a case or a…
Don’t be a headnote lawyer.
Don’t be a headnote lawyer. *By Chinua Asuzu* Don’t be a headnote lawyer—an attorney “who relies on the…
Brief-Writing: What’s your theme?
A compelling legal brief rests not only on the strength of its facts and law but on the…