“Can You Read That Back?” – Why It’s Time for Law Schools to Teach Elocution and Respect for the Record

Too many lawyers enter practice with strong writing skills but poor oral communication, undermining the integrity of the record. From rushed speech to outright hostility toward court reporters, this widespread problem erodes professionalism. Law schools must require elocution and courtroom communication training before graduation. Clear speech isn’t optional—it’s essential to justice. Respecting the record means respecting the people who preserve it, starting with how we speak.