This study makes an estimate of the laser-assisted machining (LAM) of an economically viable process for manufacturing precision silicon nitride ceramic parts using a high-power diode laser (HPDL). The surface is locally heated by an intense laser source prior to material removal, and the resulting softening and damage of the workpiece surface simplify the machining of the ceramics. The most important advantage of LAM is its ability to produce much better workpiece surface quality compared to conventional machining. Also important are its larger material removal rates and longer tool life. The cutting force and surface temperature were measured on-line using a pyrometer and a dynamometer, respectively. Tool wear, chips and the surface of the workpiece were measured using optical microscopy, and the surface and fractured cross-section of $Si_3N_4$ were measured by SEM. During the LAM process, the cutting force and tool wear were reduced and oxidation of the machined surface was increased according to the increase in the laser power. Moreover, the more the feed rate increased, the more the cutting force and tool wear increased.