If the facts are against you, argue the law. If the law is…
“If the facts are against you, argue the law. If the law is against you, argue the facts. If the law and the facts are against you, pound the table and yell like hell”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
When facts and law conflict, adapt your argument strategy to the obstacle you face.
In simple terms: Adapt arguments to facts or law as needed.
Key Takeaway
Choose the strongest angle to win.
Themes
law
strategy
advocacy
Mood
determined
assertive
Type
advice
strategic
When to use this quote
- courtroom
- negotiations
- policy debates
Key Concepts
Legal reasoning
flexibility
tactics
Questions to Reflect On
- How do you decide which argument to prioritize?
- What are the risks of confronting both facts and law?
A Different Perspective
If facts and law both oppose you, no argument may succeed.