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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 File Review,
Proof Rubric, Trial Logs and Checklists
Chapter 2 Trial
Notebook
Chapter 3 Discovery and
Investigation to Fill Gaps in Proof Rubric
Chapter 4 The Big
Picture: Strategies, Themes, Funding and Jury Considerations
Chapter 5 Alternative
Dispute Resolution and Settlement
Chapter 6 Pretrial
Submissions and Conferences: Stipulations, Motions in Limine, Trial
Briefs and Jury Instructions
Chapter 7 Jury
Selection
Chapter 8 Opening
Statement
Chapter 9 Testimonial
and Documentary Evidence
Chapter 10 Demonstrative Evidence
and Tools
Chapter 11 Closing Argument
Chapter 12 Deliberations, Verdict
and Judgment
Chapter 13 Post-Trial Activities
Expanded Table of Contents
CHAPTER 1: File Review, Proof
Rubric, Trial Logs and Checklists
I. Reviewing Case 120 Days
Before Trial
§1:01
Review Gets You Organized
§1:02
Calendar for 120 Days Before Trial
§1:03
Refreshing Review Is Trial Preparation
II. Claims, Defenses, and Pleadings Index
§1:10
Claims and Defenses
§1:11
Pleadings Index
III. Elements-of-Proof Rubric
§1:20
Review Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms for Elements of Claims and
Defenses
§1:21
Separately Cover Each Element
§1:22
Sample Elements-of-Proof Rubric
§1:23
Using Jury Instructions to Develop Proof Rubric
§1:24
Negligence
§1:25
Pain and Suffering
§1:26
Failure to Mitigate
§1:27
Comparative Negligence
IV. Other Litigation Files
§1:40
Review Entire File
§1:41
Discovery Review and Discovery Index
§1:42
Take Notes in Logs and Rubrics
V. Record Summaries
§1:50
Record Summaries
§1:51
Sample: Medical Record Summary
§1:52
Building and Using a Medical Record Summary
§1:53
Incorporate Medical Information Into Proof Chart and Trial Logs
VI. Working Logs
§1:60
Overview of Logs
§1:61
Motion-in-Limine Topics Log
§1:62
Demonstrative Evidence Log
§1:63
Quantifying Pain and Suffering Log
§1:64
Theme Log
§1:65
Evidentiary Concerns Log
§1:66
Terminology Log
§1:67
Research Issues Log
§1:68
General “To-Do” Log
§1:69
Notes Log
§1:70
Cheat Sheet
VII. Checklists
§1:80
Evidence for Each Element in Proof Rubric
§1:81
Checklist of Logs
§1:82
Checklist: Countdown Calendar
VIII. Forms
Form 1-01
120-Day Countdown Calendar
Form 1-02
Pleadings Index Form
Form 1-03
Employment Record Summary Form
Form 1-04
Medical Record Summary Form
Form 1-05
Medical Specials Forms
Form 1-06
Demonstrative Evidence Logs Forms
Form 1-07
Quantifying Pain and Suffering Forms
Form 1-08
Theme Log Forms
CHAPTER 2: Trial Notebook
I. Getting Started
§2:01
General Philosophy
§2:02
Process
II. Pretrial Notebook
§2:10
Purpose
§2:11
Sample Checklist
III. Trial Notebook Organization
A. Trial Tracking Aids
§2:20
Common Aids
B. Sequence
§2:30
Types of Sequences
§2:31
Chronological
§2:32
Subject Matter
§2:33
Alphabetical
§2:34
Numerical
§2:35
Elements-of-Proof Matrix
§2:36
Outline
C. Format
§2:50
Single Self-Contained Binder
§2:51
Single Binder With Supplementary Materials
§2:52
Multiple Binder System
§2:53
Rotating Box File
§2:54
Computerized Trial Notebook
§2:55
Legal Pad
§2:56
Computer Presentation/Note Card System
§2:57
Memory/Experience
IV. Forms
Form 2-01 Motor Vehicle
Accident—Chronological Sequencing—Single Binder with Supplementary
Materials, Legal Pad, Memory and Experience Formatting
Form 2-02 Construction
Contract—Alphabetical and Subject Matter Sequencing—Rotating Box
Formatting
Form 2-03 Defamation—Subject Matter
and Elements-of-Proof Matrix Sequencing—Single Binder
and Computer Presentation/Note Card Formatting
Form 2-04 Product Liability—Numerical
Sequencing—Multiple Binder Formatting
Form 2-05 Slip and Fall—Outline
Sequencing—Computerized Formatting
CHAPTER 3: Discovery and
Investigation to Fill Gaps in Proof Rubric
I. General Discovery Goals
§3:01
Getting Started
§3:02
Checklist: Discovery Goals
II. Informal Discovery
§3:10
Considerations
§3:11
Advantages Over Formal Discovery
§3:12
Informal Discovery to Use in Every Case
§3:13
MVA Checklist
§3:14
Medical Negligence Checklist
§3:15
Premises Checklist
§3:16
Products Liability Checklist
§3:17
Wrongful Death Checklist
III. Formal Discovery in General
§3:30
Advantages Over Informal Discovery
§3:31
Scope of Discovery
§3:32
Objections
§3:33
Protective Orders
IV. Written Discovery
A. Interrogatories
§3:40
Limitations
§3:41
Goals
§3:42
Best Uses
B. Requests for Production of Documents
§3:50
Advantages
§3:51
Hints
§3:52
Requests for Production of Electronic Information
C. Requests for Admissions
§3:60
Advantages
§3:61
Disadvantages
§3:62
Best Uses
V. Depositions
A. In General
§3:70
Goals
§3:71
Deposition Objections
§3:72
Follow-Up
§3:73
Written Depositions
B. Deposition of Your Client/Witness
§3:80
Preparation
§3:81
General Deposition Rules for Deponents
§3:82
Attorney-Specific Rules
§3:83
Case-Specific Rules
§3:84
The Anxiety Factor
§3:85
Questioning Your Own Witness
C. Deposition of Opposing Witness
§3:90
Advantages
§3:91
Goals
§3:92
Style
§3:93
Documents From a Non-Party
D. Deposition of Your Expert
§3:100
General Deposition Rules
§3:101
Attorney-Specific Rules
§3:102
Case-Specific Rules
§3:103
Later Use of the Expert’s Transcript
E. Deposition of Opposing Expert
§3:110
Preparation
§3:111
Checklist: Guidelines
§3:112
Expense
VI. Inspections and Examinations
§3:120
Site Visits and Inspection of Products
§3:121
Medical Examinations
VII. Motions to Compel
§3:130
Civility
§3:131
Typical Cases
§3:132
Possible Results
VIII. Forms
A. Interrogatories
Form 3-01
Interrogatories—General Background Information—Individual
Form 3-02
Interrogatories—General Background Information—Corporation
Form 3-03
Interrogatories—Witnesses and Evidence Introduced at Trial
Form 3-04
Interrogatories—Dog Bite
Form 3-05
Interrogatories—Product Liability
B. Depositions
Form 3-10
Deposition—Cross Examination of Defendant Driver in MVA
Form 3-11
Deposition—Notice of Subpoena Duces Tecum
Form 3-12
Deposition—Direct Examination Questions for Own Chiropractic Expert’s
Qualifications
Form 3-13
Deposition—Outline of Cross Examination of Non-Treating Medical Examiner
C. Requests for Production
Form 3-20
Requests for Production of Documents—Definition of Documents
Form 3-21
Requests for Production of Documents—Commercial Truck Accident
Form 3-22
Requests for Production of Documents—Claims Against an Estate
D. Requests for Admissions
Form 3-30
Requests for Admissions—Contract and Professional Negligence
Form 3-31
Requests for Admissions—Product Liability
Form 3-32
Requests for Admissions—Real Estate Dispute
Form 3-33
Requests for Admissions—Construction Contractor Dispute
E. Motion to Compel
Form 3-40
Plaintiffs’ Notice and Motion to Compel
Form 3-41
Defendants’ Notice and Motion to Compel
Form 3-42
Brief in Support of Motion to Compel
Form 3-43
Affidavit in Support of Motion to Compel Discovery
CHAPTER 4: The Big Picture:
Strategies, Themes, Funding and Jury Considerations
I. Stepping Back
§4:01
Look at Big Picture
II. Trial Team Assignments
§4:10
Assembling the Trial Team
§4:11
Making/Checking Assignments
III. The Other Players
§4:20
The Judge
§4:21
Checklist: Checking on Your Judge
§4:22
Judicial Considerations
§4:23
Using the Information—Judge
§4:24
The Opposing Counsel
§4:25
Checklist: Checking on Opposing Counsel
§4:26
Opposing Counsel Considerations
§4:27
Using the Information—Opposing Counsel
§4:28
Potential Jurors
§4:29
Checklist: Checking on Community of Jurors
§4:30
Community of Juror’s Considerations
§4:31
Using the Information—Community of Jurors
IV. Case Theme
§4:40
Blind Justice
§4:41
Choosing a Theme
§4:42
Theme Goals
§4:43
Your Unique Case
§4:44
A Whole Lot of Themes to Choose From
§4:45
Case-Specific Theme Ideas
V. Opposing Party’s Strategy
§4:50
Putting Things in Perspective
§4:51
Discovery
§4:52
Witnesses
§4:53
Checklist: Checking on Opposing Witnesses
§4:54
General Opposing Witness Considerations
§4:55
Motions and Briefs
§4:56
Objections
§4:57
Theme
§4:58
Overall Impression of the Opposition’s Strategy
VI. Special Jury Considerations
§4:70
Jurors Do Not Think Like Lawyers
§4:71
Focus Groups
§4:72
Mock Trials
§4:73
Juror Profile
§4:74
Juror Questionnaire
§4:75
Checklist: Use of Juror Questionnaire
§4:76
Jury Consultants
§4:77
Day-in-the-Life Videos
§4:78
Checklist: Use of a Day-in-the-Life Videotape
§4:79
Simulated Evidence
§4:80
Jury Views
§4:81
Checklist: Considerations for Requesting a Jury View
VII. Funding Issues
§4:90
Setting a Budget
§4:91
Likely Range of Values of the Case
§4:92
Past Expenditures
§4:93
Future Expenditures
§4:94
Checklist: Review to Estimate Future Expenses
§4:95
Being Practical
§4:96
Dedicating Funds From Case Budget
§4:97
Inadequate Funding
§4:98
Saving a Case With Inadequate Funding
VIII. Forms
Form 4-01 Jury
Questionnaire—Introduction
Form 4-02 Jury Questionnaire—Checklist
of General Background Information
Form 4-03 Jury Questionnaire—Exclusion
for Cause
Form 4-04 Jury Questionnaire—General
Questions That May Be Revealing
Form 4-05 Jury Questionnaire—Personal
Injury Claims
Form 4-06 Request for Jury View
Form 4-07 Expense Log
Form 4-08 Future Expense Estimates
Form 4-09 Client Letter: Recommended
Expenses
CHAPTER 5: Alternative Dispute
Resolution and Settlement
I. Preliminary Considerations
§5:01
Introduction
§5:02
Checklist: Preparing the Client for Alternative Dispute Resolution
§5:03
ADR Ethics
II. Negotiation
§5:10
General Information
§5:11
The Art of Negotiation
§5:12
Preparing for Negotiation
§5:13
Figures to Know Before Making That First Demand/Offer
§5:14
Methods for Divining an Acceptable Settlement Range
§5:15
Settlement Spreadsheet
§5:16
Hints for Opening Offer/Demand
§5:17
Preparing a Settlement Packet
§5:18
Settlement Packet Alternatives
III. Early Neutral Evaluation
§5:30
Facilitating Earlier Settlements
§5:31
Selecting the Evaluator
IV. Mediation
§5:40
General Information
§5:41
Role of the Mediator
§5:42
Checklist: Considerations in Choosing a Mediator
§5:43
Advantages of Mediation
§5:44
Disadvantages of Mediation
§5:45
Procedure
§5:46
The Mediation Submission Packet
§5:47
The Mediation Agreement
V. Arbitration
§5:60
General Information
§5:61
Advantages of Arbitration
§5:62
Disadvantages of Arbitration
§5:63
Procedure
§5:64
Arbitration Rules
§5:65
The Arbitration Submission Packet
§5:66
Grounds for Vacating the Arbitration Award
VI. Other ADR Procedures
§5:80
Summary Jury Trial/Mini Trial
§5:81
Online Settlement
VII. Forms
Form 5-01
Settlement Spreadsheet
Form 5-02
Settlement Packet Table of Contents—Personal Injury Case
Form 5-03
Statement of the Case/Demand Letter—Personal Injury Case
Form 5-04
Statement of the Case/Offer Solicitation—Personal Injury Case
Form 5-05
Recorded Statement—Personal Injury Case
Form 5-06
Demand Letter—Construction Case
Form 5-07
Mediation Submission Packet Table of Contents—Personal Injury Case
Form 5-08
Letter to Mediator—Personal Injury Case
Form 5-09
Letter From Mediator
Form 5-10
Letter to Mediator—Construction Case
Form 5-11
Post-Mediation Agreement
Form 5-12
Arbitration Award—Decision Only in Construction Case
Form 5-13
Arbitration Award—Decision and Analysis in Family Farm Dispute
CHAPTER 6: Pretrial Submissions and
Conferences: Stipulations, Motions in Limine, Trial Briefs, and Jury
Instructions
I. Moving Forward
§6:01
Introduction
§6:02
Narrowing the Issues: Concede, Gain Concession, or Fight?
II. Stipulations
§6:10
Subject Matter of Stipulations
§6:11
Stipulated Facts
§6:12
Expert Qualification Stipulations
§6:13
Witnesses and Order of Proof
§6:14
Admissibility and Authenticity of Evidence
III. Motions in Limine and Supporting Briefs
§6:20
In General
§6:21
The Objection Alternative
§6:22
What Are You Hiding?
§6:23
Preserving the Record for Appeal
§6:24
Alerting the Opposition to the Unknown
§6:25
Form Motion in Limine
§6:26
The Relevant Issues That Remain for Trial
§6:27
Details as to the Specific Evidence Counsel Seeks to Preclude
§6:28
Why Counsel Believes Certain Evidence Will Be Offered at Trial
§6:29
Why Counsel Seeks to Exclude the Evidence in General
§6:30
The Law That Supports the Exclusion
§6:31
Why Making an Objection at Trial Would Not Be Adequate
§6:32
Quick Briefing Guide
IV. Motion-in-Limine Topics
§6:40
Relevance
§6:41
Prejudice
§6:42
Other Crimes, Wrongs, or Acts
§6:43
Confusion or Delay
§6:44
Habit
§6:45
Collateral Source Rule
§6:46
Family History, Marital Status, and Sexual Orientation
§6:47
Subsequent Remedial Measures
§6:48
Media Coverage
§6:49
Judicial Notice
§6:50
Spoliation
§6:51
Dead Man’s Statutes
§6:52
Science
§6:53
Learned Treatises
§6:54
Opinion
§6:55
Severance and Bifurcation
V. Other Trial Motions and Briefs
§6:60
Purpose
§6:61
Basic Form
§6:62
Motion for Jury View
VI. Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms
§6:70
Beyond the Elements-of-Proof Rubric
§6:71
Pattern Jury Instructions
§6:72
Standard Special Verdict Forms
§6:73
Risks of Relying on Pattern Instructions and Verdict Forms
§6:74
Deciding to Draft Your Own Instructions and Verdict Forms
§6:75
Steps in Drafting an Instruction
§6:76
Steps in Drafting a Verdict Form
VII. Final Pretrial Conferences
§6:90
Purpose
§6:91
Pretrial Conference Checklist
VIII. Forms
Form 6-01 Stipulation
Form 6-02 Brief in Support of Motion
in Limine: Relevance, Prejudice, Confusion, and Delay—
Accidental Shooting
Form 6-03 Motion in Limine: Prejudice
(and Use of Stipulation)—Seat Belt Use
Form 6-04 Motion in Limine: Response
to Claimed Prejudice—Computer Simulation
Form 6-05 Motion in Limine: Response
to Claimed Cumulativeness—Computerized Simulation
Form 6-06 Motion in Limine: Response
to Claimed Scientific Errors—Computer Simulation
Form 6-07 Motion in Limine: Response
to Motion to Exclude Subsequent Remedial Measures—
Railroad Grade Crossing
Form 6-08 Motion in Limine: Collateral
Source Rule
Form 6-09 Motion in Limine: Response
to Claimed Prejudice and Spoliation—Leaving the Scene
Form 6-10 Motion in Limine: Response
to Claimed Other Crimes, Wrongs, or Acts—Prior OWI
Convictions
Form 6-11 Motion in Limine: Judicial
Notice—Twilight Times
Form 6-12 Motion in Limine: Dead Man’s
Statute
Form 6-13 Motion in Limine: Response
to Request for Bifurcation and Stay—Insurance Coverage
Form 6-14 Trial Brief on Issue of
Law—OSHA Confined Space
Form 6-15 Response to Opposition’s
Notice of Intent to File Learned Treatises
Form 6-16 Motion for a Jury View
CHAPTER 7: Jury Selection
I. Establishing Rapport With
Jurors
§7:01
Don’t Think Like a Lawyer
§7:02
First Impressions
§7:03
Decency, Civility, and Humor
II. Questionnaires, Research, Consultants
§7:10
Questionnaires
§7:11
Jury Research
§7:12
Jury Consultants
§7:13
Checklist: Questions for Hiring a Jury Consultant
III. Key Case Considerations for Jury Selection
§7:20
In General
§7:21
Case Theme Questions
§7:22
Factual and Legal Issues
§7:23
Witness Considerations
§7:24
Strategies
§7:25
Occupations and Types of Case
IV. Getting to Know Your Jurors
§7:30
Information From the Community
§7:31
Checklist: Characteristics and Attitudes
§7:32
Checklist: Experiences
§7:33
Basic Demographics
V. Juror Profile
§7:40
Discovering Attitudes and Experiences
§7:41
Easy Questions: Juror Experience
§7:42
More Challenging Discoveries: Characteristics and Attitudes
§7:43
Examples of Voir Dire Questions by Characteristics
§7:44
Fall-Back Questions
§7:45
Non-Verbal Clues
§7:46
Final Profile
VI. Juror Selection Matrix
A. In General
§7:60
Defined
§7:61
Benefits of Selection Matrix
§7:62
Considerations for Choice of a Juror Selection Matrix
B. Types of Juror Selection MatriCes
§7:70
Removable-Note System
§7:71
Note Cards
§7:72
Binder
§7:73
Spreadsheet
§7:74
Memory
VII. Voir Dire
§7:80
To Speak the Truth
§7:81
Voir Dire Tips
§7:82
The Silent Juror
§7:83
Changing Juror Biases
§7:84
Group Voir Dire
§7:85
Alternatives to Group Voir Dire
VIII. Challenges
§7:90
The Jury Panel
§7:91
Challenges for Cause
§7:92
Peremptory Challenges
§7:93
Procedure
IX. Forms
Form 7-01
Information From Community
Form 7-02
Juror Questionnaire
Form 7-03
Key Case Considerations
Form 7-04
Juror Profile
Form 7-05
Voir Dire Questions
Form 7-06
Spreadsheet Matrix
Chapter 8: Opening Statement
I. Introduction
§8:01
What the Evidence Will Show
§8:02
Opening Statement Goals
§8:03
Checklist: Opening Statement Goals
II. Procedure
§8:10
Timing
§8:11
Order
§8:12
Length
§8:13
Sequestration
§8:14
Objections
§8:15
Recording
III. Format
§8:20
Organization
§8:21
Brief Salutation
§8:22
Theme
§8:23
Parties and Witnesses
§8:24
Introduction of Evidence
§8:25
Addressing Case Weaknesses
§8:26
Legal Theories
§8:27
Case-Specific Issues
§8:28
Conclusion
IV. Preparation
§8:40
Time
§8:41
Notes
§8:42
Checklist: Opening Statement Notes
V. Language Choice
§8:50
Communicate on Common Ground
§8:51
Legalese
§8:52
Choice of Words
§8:53
Words to Visualize
§8:54
Theme-Reinforcing Words
§8:55
Humanizing the Players
§8:56
Remembering the Other Players
VI. Presentation
§8:70
Attorney Credibility
§8:71
Speaking Style
§8:72
Number of Presenters
§8:73
Level of Detail
§8:74
Effective Techniques
§8:75
Visual Aids
§8:76
Mistakes to Avoid
VII. Forms: Sample Opening Statements
Form 8-01
Opening With the Theme: Effective First Lines
Form 8-02
Introduction of the Parties
Form 8-03
Introduction of Evidence: Products Liability
Form 8-04
Neutralizing the Negatives/Admitting Weakness in a Favorable Light
Form 8-05
Legal Terminology
Form 8-06
Opening Statement Conclusions
Form 8-07
Injured Child
Form 8-08
Introducing Damages
Form 8-09
Civil v. Criminal Burdens of Proof
Form 8-10
Sample Opening Statement: Personal Injury
Form 8-11
Sample Opening Statement: Construction Case
CHAPTER 9: Testimonial and
Documentary Evidence
I. Finally: The Evidence
§9:01
Time to Prepare
§9:02
Trial Preparedness Checklist
II. Witnesses: Considering Your Options
§9:10
The Work So Far
§9:11
Preparing a Witness List
§9:12
Sample Blank Witness List
III. Special Needs of Your Case
§9:20
Admissible and Understandable Documentary Evidence
§9:21
Case Weaknesses
IV. Case-Specific Evidence Checklists
§9:30
MVA Evidence Checklist
§9:31
Medical Negligence Evidence Checklist
§9:32
Premises Liability Evidence Checklist
§9:33
Products Liability Evidence Checklist
§9:34
Wrongful Death Evidence Checklist
§9:35
Property Line Dispute Evidence Checklist
§9:36
Construction Dispute Evidence Checklist
V. Selecting Your Witnesses
§9:50
Challenging Your Choice of Witnesses
§9:51
Strategy Meeting
VI. Order of Proof
§9:60
Scheduling Considerations
§9:61
First Things First
§9:62
Plan #1
VII. Anticipating the Opposition
§9:70
Predicting Opposition Witnesses
§9:71
Opposition Witness List
§9:72
Sample Blank Opposition Witness List
VIII. Compiling Witness Documents in Trial
Notebook
§9:80
Format
§9:81
Contents
IX. Your Lay Witnesses
§9:90
Special Considerations: Examination of Lay Witnesses
§9:91
Checklist: Preparing Your Lay Witnesses
§9:92
General Testimony Rules
§9:93
Attorney-Specific Rules
§9:94
Case-Specific Rules
§9:95
Addressing Difficult Questions in Cross Examination
§9:96
The Anxiety Factor
§9:97
Honesty
§9:98
Subpoenas
X. Expert Witnesses
§9:110
Special Considerations: Examination of Experts
§9:111
Checklist: Preparing Your Expert Witnesses
§9:112
Qualifying Experts
§9:113
Testimony of Scientific, Technical, and Other Specialized Knowledge
§9:114
Learned Treatises
§9:115
Inadmissible Facts or Data
§9:116
Expert Testimony Without an Expert
XI. Preparing for Cross Examination
§9:130
Lay Witnesses
§9:131
Expert Witnesses
XII. Witness Testimony Outlines
§9:140
Format
§9:141
Checklist: Outlines
§9:142
Checklist: Outline of Topics for Your Experts
§9:143
Checklist: Outline of Topics for Opposition Experts
§9:144
Economic Experts
§9:145
Treating Medical Experts
§9:146
Defense Medical Examiner (DME)
§9:147
Liability Experts
§9:148
Rehabilitating Your Witnesses
§9:149
Preparing for Objections
§9:150
Checklist of Common Objections
§9:151
Using What You Know About the Players
XIII. The Testimony
§9:160
General Rules of Engagement
§9:161
Personal Style
§9:162
Credibility Considerations
§9:163
Language Choice
§9:164
Level of Detail
§9:165
Admissibility and Authenticity of Evidence
§9:166
Court Error List
§9:167
Blank Court Error List
§9:168
Closing Argument Notes
§9:169
Blank Closing Argument Notes
XIV. Trial Videos
§9:180
Hints for Using Video Depositions
§9:181
Day-in-the-Life Videos
§9:182
Dummy-Tells-All Videos
§9:183
Editing Videos for Trial
XV. Using Depositions at Trial
§9:190
Purposes
§9:191
Direct Examination
§9:192
Cross-Examination
XVI. Forms
Form 9-01 Sample Completed
Witness List
Form 9-02 Brief in Opposition to
Motion to Limit the Scope of Testimony
Form 9-03 Sample Completed
Opposition Witness List
Form 9-04 Rules of Cross
Examination
Form 9-05 Sample Completed Court
Error List
Form 9-06 Sample Completed
Closing Argument Notes
Form 9-07 Sample Impeachments
with Deposition Transcripts
Form 9-08 Sample Refreshing
Witness’ Recollection
Form 9-09 The Quiz: A
Lighthearted Assessment of the Attorney’s Trial Readiness
CHAPTER 10: Demonstrative Evidence
and Tools
I. Scope of Chapter
§10:01
Telling a Good Story
§10:02
Real v. Demonstrative Evidence
II. Key Decisions
§10:10
Timing
§10:11
Funding
§10:12
Stipulations
§10:13
Incorporating Themes
III. Admissibility
§10:20
Key Requirements
§10:21
Evidence Logs
§10:22
Objections at Trial
IV. Learning Styles of Jurors
§10:30
Learn Like a Juror
§10:31
Multiple Senses and Styles
§10:32
Memories
§10:33
Adapting the Presentation
V. Case-Specific Demonstrative
Evidence and Tools
§10:40
MVA Cases
§10:41
Medical Negligence Cases
§10:42
Premises Cases
§10:43
Products Liability Cases
§10:44
Wrongful Death Cases
VI. Displaying Demonstrative Evidence
§10:50
Checklist: Choosing a Medium for Displaying Evidence
§10:51
Document Cameras and Projectors
VII. Obtaining Demonstrative
Evidence and Tools
§10:60
Sources
§10:61
Checklist: Creating Demonstrative Evidence
VIII. Types of Demonstrative Evidence and
Tools
§10:70
Photographs
§10:71
Videos
§10:72
Audio Recordings
§10:73
Posters
§10:74
Flip Charts and White Boards
§10:75
Transparencies/Projectors
§10:76
Slides
§10:77
Computer-Generated Exhibits
§10:78
Charts, Graphs, and Maps
§10:79
Models, Miniatures, and Impressions
§10:80
Other Physical Evidence
§10:81
Jury Views
§10:82
Experiments
§10:83
Demonstrations
IX. Presentation of Demonstrative Evidence
§10:90
Checklist: Preparing to Present Demonstrative Evidence
§10:91 Steps
to Present Demonstrative Evidence
§10:92 Use of
Demonstrative Tools
§10:93 Opening
Statement and Closing Argument
§10:94 Witness
Considerations
§10:95
Equipment
§10:96
Presenting to the Jury
X. Forms
Form 10-01
Letter to Client Confirming Client’s Decisions Regarding Expenditure
Form 10-02
Response to Objection to Admissibility of Experiment Testimony
CHAPTER 11: Closing Argument
I. Purpose and Goals
§11:01
Finally, Put the Puzzle Together
§11:02
Checklist: Closing Argument Goals
II. Summation Formalities
§11:10
Timing
§11:11
Length
§11:12
Number of Presenters
§11:13
Recording
III. Summation Legal Quandaries
§11:20
Review Your Jurisdiction’s Rules
§11:21
Golden Rule
§11:22
Per Diem
§11:23
Talking Numbers
§11:24
Explaining the Impact of the Verdict
§11:25
Reading the Law
§11:26
Referencing Pleadings
§11:27
Liability Insurance
§11:28
Collateral Source Rule
§11:29
Notetaking
IV. Outlining Techniques
§11:40
Prepare a Working Outline
§11:41
Cut Out Pointless Material
§11:42
Checklist: Closing Argument Outline Guide
§11:43
Basic Structure
§11:44
Format
V. Preparing a Case-Specific Outline
§11:50
Outline Topics
§11:51
Greeting
§11:52
Theme to Start and End
§11:53
Theory of the Case
§11:54
Explaining the Elements
§11:55
Arguing the Evidence
§11:56
Burdens of Proof
§11:57
Discussing Damages
VI. Rebuttal
§11:70
Rebuttal Reminders
VII. Fleshing Out the Outlines at the Close of Evidence
§11:80 Closing
Argument Notes
§11:81
Juror Selection Matrix
§11:82
Opening Statement
§11:83
Stipulations
§11:84
The Opposition’s Strategy
§11:85
Witness Testimony
VIII. Successful Summation Techniques
§11:90
Use Rhetorical Questions
§11:91
Tell Stories and Personal Anecdotes
§11:92
Keep the Jury in Suspense
§11:93
Present Demonstrative Evidence and Tools
§11:94
Quote Others
§11:95
Focus on What Is Most Important
§11:96
Be Passionate, But Not Punishing
§11:97
Change or Exchange Biases
§11:98
Use New Twist
§11:99
Assist With Complex Functions
§11:100 Stop
§11:101 Helpful
Hints: 30 Things to Avoid in Closing Argument
IX. Style
§11:110 Style Hints
§11:111 Legalese and
Difficult Terminology
§11:112 Choice Words
§11:113 Non-Verbal
Feedback
§11:114 Decency,
Civility, and Humor
X. Objections and Errors
§11:120 Objections
§11:121 Court Error
List
XI. Forms: Sample Closing Argument Outlines
Form 11-01 Sample Outline Sections—Greetings
and Reminders about Obligations
Form 11-02 Sample Outline Section—Theory and
Explaining How the Evidence Supports the
Elements
Form 11-03 Sample Outline Section—Greeting,
Theme, and Theory
Form 11-04 Sample Outline Section—Arguing
the Evidence in Dispute
Form 11-05 Sample Outline Section—Arguing
About Causation of Injury With Pre-Existing Problems
Form 11-06 Sample Outline Section—Arguing
the Damages
Form 11-07 Sample Lines to End the Argument
CHAPTER 12: Deliberations, Verdict
and Judgment
I. Deliberation Procedure
§12:01
The Mystery of Deliberations
§12:02
Instructing the Jury as to Procedure
§12:03
Checklist: Advice for the Jury
II. What Goes to the Jury?
§12:10
Checklist: Trial Exhibits
§12:11
Jury Instructions and Verdict Forms
§12:12
Extraneous Information
III. Communication with the Jury
§12:20
Manner of Communicating With the Jury
§12:21
Juror Questions During the Trial
§12:22
Jury Requests for Instructions
§12:23
Jury Requests for Exhibits and Evidence
§12:24
Juror Communication With Bailiff
§12:25
Communication During Lengthy Deliberations
§12:26
Jury Favors
IV. Juror Misconduct
§12:40
Dangers of Extraneous Information
§12:41
Activities That May Constitute Misconduct
§12:42
Visiting the Scene
§12:43
Discussing the Case Outside of Deliberations
§12:44
Reading Non-Evidentiary Materials
§12:45
Outside Research
§12:46
Experiments and Investigations
§12:47
Intoxication
V. Dealing with Misconduct Prior to
Verdict
§12:60
Procedure
§12:61
Options After Determination of Misconduct
§12:62
Curative Instructions
§12:63
Declaring a Mistrial
VI. Juror Discharge
§12:70
Typical Reasons for Discharge
§12:71
Discharge Procedure
§12:72
Result of Juror Discharge
§12:73
Juror Substitution After Start of Deliberation
VII. The Verdict
§12:80 General
or Special
§12:81
Checklist: Drafting the Verdict Form
§12:82
Checklist: Editing the Verdict Form Before Deliberations
§12:83 Typical
Procedure
§12:84
Completion of the Verdict Form
§12:85
Announcing the Verdict
§12:86 Polling
the Jury
§12:87
Discharging the Jury
VIII. Problem Verdicts
§12:100 Inconsistent
Verdict
§12:101 Erroneous Verdict
§12:102 Chance Verdict
§12:103 Quotient Verdict
§12:104 Compromise Verdict
§12:105 Directed Verdict
IX. Impeachment of the Verdict
§12:110 Historically
§12:111 Modern Rules
§12:112 Factors for
Consideration
§12:113 Competent
Evidence
§12:114 Substantive
Grounds
§12:115 Exposure to
Information
§12:116 Prejudice
§12:117 Impeaching
vs. Clarifying a Verdict
§12:118 Procedure
for Impeaching the Verdict
X. Judgment
§12:130 Formalities
§12:131 Judgment
Terminology
§12:132 Judgment as
a Matter of Law
§12:133 Pre- and
Post-Judgment Interest
§12:134 Bill of
Costs
XI. Preserving the Record for Appeal
§12:140 Objections
§12:141 Court Error
List
XII. Forms
Form 12-01
Negligence General Verdict
Form 12-02
Multi-Party Negligence and Safe Place (Statutory Claim) Special Verdict
Form 12-03
Comparative Fault Special Verdict
Form 12-04
Intentional Act Special Verdict
Form 12-05
Punitive Damage Special Verdict
Form 12-06
Product Liability Special Verdict Form
Form 12-07
Strict Liability and Negligence Special Verdict
Form 12-08
Federal §1983 Claim Special Verdict
Form 12-09
Fair Housing Violation Special Verdict Form
Form 12-10
Order for Judgment
Form 12-11
Judgment
Form 12-12
Notice of Entry of Judgment
Form 12-13
Bill of Costs
Form 12-14
Affidavit in Support of Bill of Costs
Form 12-15
Notice of Taxation of Costs
CHAPTER 13: Post-Trial Activities
I. Drawing a Case to a Close
§13:01
Review Preparation and Trial With Open Mind
§13:02
Checklist: Post-Trial Tasks
II. Success or Failure?
§13:10
Analyzing the Success of the Trial: Plaintiff’s Verdict
§13:11
Analyzing the Success of the Trial: Defendant’s Verdict
III. Looking for Something to Appeal
§13:20
In Search of an Error
§13:21
Court Error List
§13:22
Objections
§13:23
Requests for Mistrial
§13:24
Improper Argument
§13:25
Violation of Court Order
§13:26
Juror Misconduct
§13:27
Problem Verdicts
§13:28
Interviewing Participants
IV. Interviews of Jurors
§13:40
Attorney Communication With Jurors After Jurors’ Dismissal
§13:41
Post-Trial Juror Interview Considerations
§13:42
Brainstorming: Questions for the Jurors
§13:43
Interviewing Other Participants
V. Getting Better
§13:50
Checklist: Improvements for Next Trial
§13:51
Juror Profile Analysis
§13:52
Jury Consultant Analysis
VI. Post-Verdict Motions
§13:60
Motion Goals
§13:61
Types of Post-Verdict Motions
§13:62
Motion Timing Issues
§13:63
Motions to Impeach the Verdict
VII. Deciding to Appeal
§13:70
Considerations
§13:71
Standards of Review
VIII. Appeal Formalities
§13:80
Local Considerations
§13:81
Appeals Deadline Log
IX. Appellate Briefs
§13:90
Briefing Tips
§13:91
Brief Outline
§13:92
Briefs of Intervenors and Amicus Curiae
X. Oral Argument
§13:100 Oral
Argument Tips
§13:101 Precedent
Index
XI. Forms
Form 13-01
Notice of Appeal
Form 13-02
Petition for Leave to Appeal
Form 13-03
Docketing Statement
Form 13-04
Transcript Order Form
Form 13-05
Brief Cover Sheet
Form 13-06
Certificate of Mailing
Form 13-07
Notice of Motion After Verdict
Form 13-08
Motion After Verdict
Form 13-09
Motion After Verdict Brief—Wisconsin Sample
Form 13-10
Precedent Index
Table of Statutes
Table of Cases
INDEX
