Be Ready for a Reptile-Reboot
By Dr. Ken Broda-Bahm: The “Reptile” approach to trying civil cases by targeting a fear response has transitioned from being a novelty to being a mainstay in a little more than a decade. While the approach has not always been taken seriously by defendants, it has been the North Star for many on the plaintiff’s […]
Litigation Graphics: A Game-Changer in the Courtroom
Discover how utilizing litigation graphics can significantly impact the outcome of a trial and captivate the jury's attention. The Power of Visual Communication in the Courtroom In the courtroom, visual communication plays a crucial role in presenting complex information in a clear and compelling manner. By using litigation graphics, attorneys can effectively convey their arguments and evidence to the jury, helping them understand the case more easily. Visuals have a powerful impact on human perception and memory. Studies have shown that juries remember information better when it is presented visually rather than verbally. This makes litigation graphics an essential tool
Encourage Juror Note-Taking (and Take Notes Yourselves)
By Dr. Ken Broda-Bahm: In our increasingly digital world, the idea of taking notes the old-fashioned way with paper and pen can feel quaint. Yet, many of us still do it. For those jurors who are permitted to take notes, they are almost certainly doing it the old-fashioned way. New research, however, continues to demonstrate […]
Expect Jurors to Mix Fact and Opinion
By Dr. Ken Broda-Bahm: The distinction between what is fact and what is opinion is arguably one of the most fundamental distinctions in law. But in practice, it is actually a lawyer’s distinction. In the real world, and in the minds of many jurors and some judges, facts and opinions end up being combined and mixed. The […]
29 Leap Year Tips for Success at Trial: From Mock Trial to Closing Statement
I often talk about what not to do, but sometimes, I must remember to mention what you should do to achieve success at trial. In honor of leap year 2024, I have written this article offering 29 tips for successful trial preparation and execution. You can use this list as a checklist to compare yourself to your peers. I did not develop these ideas alone. Instead, they come from my experience working with the best of you over the past 30 years. 1. Conduct a mock trial. The very best litigators always conduct a mock trial when at least $10 million is
Improve Voir Dire: A Trump-Jury Example Script
By Dr. Ken Broda-Bahm: In just over a month, barring any unforeseen delays, New York prosecutors and attorneys for criminal defendant Donald J. Trump will be picking a jury in what’s become known as the “hush money” case. The March 25th trial focuses on the payments the defendant made to former porn star Stormy Daniels […]