Argument Quote by Robert H. Jackson
“I used to say that, as Solicitor General, I made three arguments of every case. First came the one that I planned-as I thought, logical, coherent, complete. Second was the one actually presented-interrupted, incoherent, disjointed, disappointing. The third was the utterly devastating argument that I thought of after going to bed that night.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Oral Argument before the Supreme Court, 1949
The speaker describes three argumentative strategies: a planned logical one, a flawed presented one, and a powerful but delayed one conceived after rest.
In simple terms: Three ways to argue a case.
Key Takeaway
Consider multiple perspectives and timing.
Themes
law
strategy
creativity
reflection
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
legal
strategic
When to use this quote
- courtroom advocacy
- legal preparation
- nighttime reflection
Key Concepts
argumentation
judicial process
critical thinking
Questions to Reflect On
- How can lawyers balance preparation with spontaneity?
- What is the value of post‑mortem insight?
A Different Perspective
The third argument may be impractical without preparation.
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