Articles

The following is a checklist to help you prepare and conduct an effective Voir Dire (Jury Selection). Voir Dire is your opportunity to hand-select the audience for your trial. If you plan, prepare and perform, you will maximize your client’s chance of success even before the evidence begins.

The following is a checklist to help you prepare and execute a persuasive Direct Examination. In your first few trials, be sure to review the list until the items become familiar and habitual.

A witness’s failure to recall a fact or event at trial is a common occurrence. Trial lawyers must master the mechanics of refreshing the recollection (memory) of a witness or risk foregoing the admission of valuable, relevant evidence. The following is a breakdown of the elements of refreshing the recollection of a witness and an exemplar script. 

This article outlines the most common trial objections, including objections to the form of questions, objections to proffered evidence, and motions to strike.

A successful Direct Examination tells a compelling story to the jury. Since trials are typically won by the side that has the most provable and convincing story, conducting an effective direct examination is critical to success.  This article will explore five essential principles of an effective direct examination.

Cross-examination, whether by cudgel or scalpel, can be a powerful weapon to attack the credibility of your opponent’s case theory, witnesses and documentary evidence. However, often, too often, it becomes a liability due to poor planning or execution.