In this episode, Elizabeth shares expert insights on transforming your trial preparation with Zoom focus groups. Discover the unique benefits of virtual sessions, including the ability to capture participants' facial reactions up close, which can't be replicated in traditional settings. Elizabeth uses her extensive experience and real-world examples to demonstrate how these online gatherings can deepen your understanding of juror behavior, enhancing your courtroom strategies.

Learn about the convenience and flexibility that Zoom focus groups offer, saving time and resources while allowing you to experiment with different formats. Elizabeth compares virtual and in-person focus groups, highlighting the distinct interactions possible through Zoom. Tune in to explore how these insights can strengthen your connections with clients and juries, ultimately boosting your effectiveness in court. Whether you're a seasoned lawyer or new to virtual focus groups, this episode offers valuable strategies for your legal practice.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Advantages of Zoom focus groups over traditional in-person settings
• Benefits of capturing close-up participant reactions on Zoom
• Cost-effectiveness and convenience of online focus groups
• Flexibility and freedom in structuring virtual sessions
• Use cases for Zoom focus groups in pre-lawsuit and pre-mediation stages

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Supporting Resources:

You can watch this episode on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/uOGoz3O167o

Don’t want to miss an episode? Looking for additional resources? Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter to receive a monthly email packed with information straight to your inbox. Click here to join.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Prep, host Elizabeth Larrick presents a structured approach to mastering trial preparation. She emphasizes starting with a comprehensive review of your case file, scrutinizing key documents like depositions and expert reports to identify core issues in liability and damages. This initial step involves crafting two crucial lists to streamline your strategy: one for liability and one for damages, ensuring you are aware of potential pitfalls and ready to advocate effectively in the courtroom.

The second step is to evaluate your case through the lens of a juror, focusing on worst-case scenarios and simplifying complex issues into clear yes-or-no decisions. This perspective helps in assessing the risks and understanding what aspects need reinforcement. Finally, Elizabeth discusses strategies for fixing or neutralizing any identified weaknesses, whether by gathering additional evidence, reconsidering claims, or adjusting your trial strategy. By following these steps, trial lawyers can enhance their preparation, connect better with juries, and confidently navigate courtroom challenges.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Importance of a comprehensive case file review
• Crafting liability and damages lists to identify potential issues
• Evaluating trial risks through a juror's worst-case scenario lens
• Techniques for fixing or neutralizing problematic issues

Follow and Review:

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Supporting Resources:

Need that list of books to get your brain excited about trial prep? Go to Episode 134.

Link to watch this episode on YouTube.

Link to join Elizabeth’s Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

On this episode of Trial Lawyer Prep, Elizabeth Larrick shares strategies for trial lawyers to develop a winning legal approach from the start of litigation. Drawing from her experience with renowned trial lawyer Don Keenan, Elizabeth explains the dangers of last-minute strategy planning and the confusion that can arise from disorganized opening statements. She emphasizes the need for a clear and cohesive presentation to effectively communicate with juries.

Elizabeth shares practical methods to kickstart your trial preparation, including the use of jury research and focus groups, and highlights the benefits of committing to a single persuasive strategy. Discover actionable steps such as writing down ideas, dedicating focused time for evaluation, and seeking inspiration from trial strategy literature or podcasts.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Importance of early trial strategy development to avoid procrastination pitfalls.
• Risks of a disorganized "Frankenstein" approach and cramming strategies into opening statements.
• Value of committing to a single, coherent persuasion method for trial success.
• Utilization of jury research and focus groups to test and refine trial strategies.
• Actionable steps for trial preparation: writing ideas down, setting time blocks, and seeking inspiration.

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We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Jump to Episode 131 to get an overview of trial strategy.

Books to Kickstart your Trial Strategy Planning:

Trial by Human by Nick Rowley & Steven Halteman

Rules of the Road by Rick Friedman & Patrick Malone

Polarizing the Case by Rick Friedman

From Hostage to Hero by Sari de la Motte

Damages 3 by David Ball

Trial by Woman by Courtney Rowley & Theresa Bowen Hatch

The Keenan Edge Anthology by Don Keenan and various contributors (including me)

Winning Case Preparation by Bozart, Cusimano, Lazarus and Wenner

Learn more about how Elizabeth helps trial lawyer here.

Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn.

Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter to get quick tips and ideas for your case preparation and trial persuasion. Go here to join.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Explore practical time management and mindset strategies tailored for trial lawyers with expert insights from lawyer coach Dina Cataldo. In this episode, Dina shares her journey from criminal prosecutor to coach, offering actionable advice to manage stress, prioritize tasks, and overcome negative thoughts. Discover how small habit changes can lead to significant improvements in your legal practice and personal life.

Elizabeth and Dina address the unique challenges female attorneys face, balancing demanding careers with personal responsibilities, and provide strategies to enhance daily productivity and instill confidence. Learn how structured planning and healthy routines can conserve energy and reduce stress, essential skills for the fast-paced world of trial law.

Dina reveals methods like "Sunday planning" and setting time limits for tasks to streamline workflow and improve efficiency. Understand the importance of addressing internal resistance and fostering a healthy relationship with time for professional growth.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Time management strategies tailored for trial lawyers.
• Importance of mindset in enhancing courtroom performance and managing stress.
• Techniques for optimizing energy levels and reducing daily frustrations.
• Structured planning methods, including "Sunday planning" and setting time limits for tasks.
• Addressing internal resistance and developing a healthy relationship with time.
• Emphasis on self-care and prioritizing personal goals alongside professional duties.

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Learn more about Dina Cataldo: www.dinacataldo.com

Get Dina’s Free Workbook: 3 Sneaky Problems Stealing Your Time and Productivity (and How to Fix Them Now!)

Schedule a Strategy Call 

Follow Dina’s Podcast Be a Better Lawyer 

Learn more about how Elizabeth helps trial lawyer here.

Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn.

Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter to get quick tips and ideas for your case preparation and trial persuasion. Go here to join.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

 

Even with the mounting pressures of trial preparation, Elizabeth offers three straightforward strategies any lawyer can implement: strategic timelines that tap into natural chronological thinking, active notepad writing to command attention, and the persuasive rule of threes.

Whether you prefer simple sketches or polished presentations, Elizabeth offers guidance on easy techniques that pave the way for a successful trial strategy. 

In this episode, you will hear:

• Strategies for mastering courtroom persuasion for trial lawyers
• Utilizing timelines to organize narratives and simplify complex information
• Techniques for enhancing jury engagement through storytelling
• Practical tips on using giant notepads for courtroom attention and memory retention
• The power of the "rule of threes" in simplifying and organizing presentations

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Learn more about how Elizabeth helps trial lawyer here.

Connect with Elizabeth on LinkedIn.

Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter to get quick tips and ideas for your case preparation and trial persuasion. Go here to join.

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Join Elizabeth Larrick as she shares insights on developing trial strategies that resonate with juries. This episode is designed for trial lawyers seeking to enhance their courtroom success by focusing on a comprehensive strategy rather than just meeting deadlines or relying on emotional narratives. Elizabeth delves into the importance of using focus groups to anticipate jury reactions and prepare multiple contingency plans for trial preparation.

Gain tips on crafting compelling narratives, prioritizing crucial information, and employing strategic questioning. Learn how to sequence witnesses and evidence to streamline your courtroom presentation. Elizabeth emphasizes the significance of flexibility in your plans to handle unexpected challenges. 

In this episode, you will hear:

• Understanding trial strategy beyond deadlines and persuasive elements
• Importance of a cohesive, big-picture plan considering the jury's perspective
• Utilizing focus groups to predict jury reactions and develop contingency plans
• Crafting memorable and clear narratives through effective communication 
• Strategic sequencing of witnesses and evidence to streamline presentations
• Simplifying and prioritizing information for impactful trial presentations

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Want to join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter and receive monthly emails with additional help for your cases? Click here to complete the form.

Be sure to check out the Michelle Gessner episodes to hear about her trial strategy formulated from the focus groups.

Episode 128

Episode 129

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Prep, Elizabeth Larrick discusses the importance of immediate and thorough reflection on focus group feedback for trial lawyers. She emphasizes early recording of impressions, detailed review within seven days, and actionable steps to improve trial strategies. Elizabeth shares her methods for compiling and analyzing data to ensure focus group insights are effectively utilized in courtroom preparations.   00:00 Introduction to Trial Lawyer Prep 00:40 Welcome and Episode Overview 00:53 The Importance of Reflection in Jury Research 02:39 Immediate Reflection After Focus Groups 06:28 Seven-Day Reflection and Analysis 10:03 Implementing Feedback and Next Steps 16:08 Conclusion and Additional Resources   Want to join the Trial Lawyer Newsletter to receive a monthly email with more tips, strategies and information on being a better trial lawyer? Go here: https://larricklawfirm.com/connect/

In this episode of Trial Lawyer Prep, we delve into the role that focus groups can play in legal trials. This episode explores whether focus groups are worth the investment, as we continue our conversation with Michelle Gessner. Through a case study involving Wells Fargo, Michelle shares her experience in utilizing focus groups to anticipate juror reactions and refine legal strategies, ultimately providing an edge in the courtroom. This episode underscores the financial considerations and potential rewards of employing focus groups, highlighting how they can reveal juror perceptions and help counteract defense tactics.

Moreover, the episode sheds light on the applications of focus groups in trial preparation, particularly in determining the order of witnesses and enhancing witness preparation. Michelle emphasizes the importance of using focus groups to establish a sequence for presenting evidence, which can significantly influence juror understanding and case outcomes. The discussion also highlights the value of having an external perspective during witness prep to identify potential communication breakdowns. With these insights, trial lawyers can enhance their strategies and increase their chances of achieving favorable outcomes in court. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed by joining the Trial Lawyer Prep newsletter and leveraging the expertise shared in this episode to elevate their trial game.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Strategic witness preparation and sequencing based on focus group feedback
• Managing financial risks versus benefits of focus group insights
• Role of focus groups in shaping depositions, summary judgment briefs, and evidence presentation
• Techniques for refining opening statements and trial strategies with focus group feedback

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

 

Supporting Resources:

If you have more questions or have an employment matter to talk with Michelle about, please contact her at:

[email protected]

To learn more about Michelle, please visit her website: Gessner Law PLLC

Don’t want to miss an episode of the podcast? Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter to get an email straight to your inbox with episodes and resources for witness prep, trial strategy and focus groups. Use this link: https://larricklawfirm.com/connect/

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

 

Join us as we delve into the remarkable $22 million verdict achieved by trial lawyer Michelle Gessner against Wells Fargo. Michelle shares her strategic approach to a high-stakes case involving the wrongful termination of a Wells Fargo employee who requested a work-from-home accommodation under the ADA. This episode is packed with insights for trial lawyers, highlighting the value of focus groups in shaping trial strategy and boosting confidence. Discover how focus groups can refine your opening statements and jury selection, even when limited to a 20-minute voir dire. Michelle also discusses the challenges of maintaining focus group confidentiality when faced with aggressive tactics from opposing counsel. Gain valuable knowledge on navigating complex litigation and learn how meticulous preparation can make a significant difference in your courtroom success.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Lessons learned from Michelle Gessner's landmark $22 million verdict against Wells Fargo.
• Leveraging focus groups to build confidence in trial strategies and understand juror perceptions.
• Utilizing focus groups to refine opening statements and determine the most impactful evidence presentation.
• Strategies for effective jury selection with limited voir dire time, emphasizing swift decision-making.
• Protecting focus group footage from opposing counsel's access attempts and maintaining its confidentiality.
• Handling aggressive legal tactics from opponents, including motions to access attorney work product.

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Learn more about Michelle Gessner at: https://www.mgessnerlaw.com/michelle-gessner/#gref

You can reach out to Michelle Gessner via email: [email protected]

To join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter please visit: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Join Elizabeth Larrick as she explores the decision-making process of whether to settle a case or proceed to a jury trial. This episode provides trial lawyers with actionable insights into evaluating jury trials by examining recent verdicts and settlements and leveraging the experience of attorneys familiar with key players in the case. Elizabeth shares how focus groups composed of non-lawyers can offer valuable perspectives, helping to understand jurors' mindsets.

Look into trial preparation and risk assessment, focusing on the importance of evaluating evidence from a juror's viewpoint. Elizabeth discusses the strategic use of focus groups in refining opening statements and provides a comprehensive view of weighing the risks and rewards of settling versus going to trial. 

In this episode, you will hear:

• Decision-making between settling a case and going to a jury trial
• Importance of researching recent verdicts, settlements, and consulting experienced attorneys.
• Utilizing focus groups to understand jurors' perspectives and attitudes.
• Trial preparation, risk assessment, and evaluating evidence from a juror's viewpoint.
• Assessing trial costs, time commitments, and potential outcomes to guide clients effectively.

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Want to learn to set-up your own virtual focus groups? Join my Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter to learn about when my DIY course opens again and gain helpful trial tips & insight each month, go to www.larricklawfirm.com/connect to sign up.

Related episodes on trial preparation: Ep 122

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.