Monkeys in Business Suits
“You’re not even listening to me!” It wasn’t the first time I’d heard that phrase. I’m sure it won’t be the last time I hear that phrase, either. And candidly, no, I wasn’t listening to her. But there’s a pretty good reason why I wasn’t listening… I wasn’t listening to her because of the monkeys. Let me explain. Behind her head and directly in my line of sight was a big screen TV showing an ad for a job search website. ...
Read MoreWhat Impression Does Your Table Make?
Courthouses vary from county to county, and courtrooms vary from courthouse to courthouse. But for the most part, the tables inside those courtrooms are pretty consistent. Sometimes they have modesty panels, sometimes they don’t, sometimes they have electrical or internet access ports, sometimes they don’t, but regardless of where you try cases, you and your opponent will usually end up sitting behind identical 96″ x 30″ x 30″ tables. The question you need to ask yourself is,...
Read MoreThe Proper Use of Notes During Jury Trials
How many notes do you use during trial? It’s a delicate balancing act. Too few notes, and you run the risk of forgetting to address an important element of your case. Too many notes, and you risk sounding scripted. Here are a couple of quick tips for improving your use of notes during trial. When Speaking Directly to the Jury The importance of eye contact in the courtroom can’t be overstated. The visible (sometimes barely visible) reactions of your jurors can help you decide...
Read MoreThe Rules of Repetition
Two hunters are out in the woods when one of them collapses. He doesn’t seem to be breathing and his eyes are glazed. The other guy whips out his phone and calls the emergency services. He gasps, “My friend is dead! What can I do?” The operator says “Calm down. I can help. First, let’s make sure he’s dead.” There is a silence, then two gunshots are heard. Back on the phone, the guy says “OK, now what?” The first time you hear that joke, it’s hilarious. The second...
Read MoreAdding Power to Courtroom Presentations
The lights dim, and the first slide appears. You think to yourself, “Oh no, another boring PowerPoint presentation.” The first line of text soars in from the left, each character twirling and dancing across the screen. You count eleven bullet points on the first screen (the shortest of which is sixteen words long). The second slide is even more confusing. The third is a picture of his kids. Fortunately, the room is dark, so no one notices as you start to fall asleep… Why are most PowerPoint...
Read MoreResources for Trial Lawyers
