Trial Practice

Structuring your mini opening: Know when to hold ‘em

The judge must allow your brief statement before voir dire questions begin – make the most of it

Judge Stern recalls his baptism under fire as a Federal Public Defender in an unlawful detainer eviction action in front of an impatient judge

From Issue: 2019 July

“The bigger, overarching question is, do you play it safe – e.g., keep it simple, not go for home runs – or go big?”

Combine online tools with a scene inspection to narrow your search for a dangerous condition

A collaborative assessment of the value of forgiveness in a litigation practice

From Issue: 2018 May

Let defendant’s violation of community safety rules be your theme

From Issue: 2018 March

A look at the responsibilities both before and during trial

Getting past the roadblock of the commonly asserted design-immunity defense

From Issue: 2019 April

Try thinking of opposing counsel as decent people who care about puppies and children

Lincoln the lawyer could tell a story. The story of the case must be told well, just like the unfolding of a movie or book.

From Issue: 2018 August

Don’t let the medical examiner conduct an oral examination – this isn’t a deposition

From Issue: 2018 April

The “devil’s advocate” technique can overcome barriers to persuasion