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

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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, 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:

Michelle@mgessnerlaw.com

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: michelle@mgessnerlaw.com

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.

Join Elizabeth Larrick as she explores the transformative power of virtual focus groups for trial lawyers. In this episode, Elizabeth discusses her course, "DIY Virtual Focus Groups for Beginners," designed to equip trial lawyers with the skills to run their own focus groups. Elizabeth shares her experience of how these methods have enhanced her practice by providing crucial jury insights and improving case decisions. The course offers practical tools, including recorded Zoom sessions, a detailed workbook, and a supportive community, addressing common challenges like recruitment, presentation, and moderation.

Elizabeth emphasizes the importance of integrating feedback into legal case preparations, aiming for clarity and simplicity in jury communication. Discover how running your own focus groups can refine your presentation strategies, connect more effectively with juries and clients, and enhance your overall courtroom success.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Introduction to DIY Virtual Focus Groups for trial lawyers

• Strategies for recruitment, presentation, and moderation in focus groups

• Importance of integrating feedback for effective jury communication

• Benefits of running personal focus groups for case preparation

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:

Access to the on-demand course Do-It-Yourself Virtual Focus Groups is CLOSED. However, you can join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter today and get the latest updates on when Elizabeth will open the course again: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

To hear other episodes about running your own virtual focus groups check out:

DIY Focus Groups with Clint Shumacher [Ep 83]

Setting Up Your Focus Group System [Ep 81]

Focus Group Recruiting [Ep 80]

DIY Virtual Jury Research Part 1 [Ep 19]

DIY Virtual Jury Research Part 2 [Ep 20]

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, Elizabeth explores innovative and cost-effective strategies for trial preparation that go beyond traditional mock juries. Designed with solo practitioners and small law firms in mind, this episode examines techniques like focus groups that can provide valuable insights without the high costs. Learn how attorneys like Ryan Squires and Peter Levine successfully used virtual focus groups to refine their trial strategies, leading to significant verdicts and settlements. Gain actionable tips to enhance your courtroom skills and connect more effectively with juries.

In this episode, you will hear:

• Exploring cost-effective alternatives to mock juries for trial preparation
• Benefits and insights of using focus groups, both in-person and virtual
• Overcoming traditional trial prep challenges for solo practitioners and small firms
• Practical tips for conducting short, targeted focus groups

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 get in-depth insight straight to your inbox? Join the Trial Lawyer Prep Newsletter at www.larricklawfirm.com/connect to get a specially crafted email once a month from Elizabeth that gives lawyers extra resources, tips and information on preparing the best case.

Here are the episodes mentioned by Elizabeth:

Ep 35 Ryan Squires and his Record Setting $40 million verdict

Ep 19 DIY Virtual Jury Research Part 1

Ep 20 DIY Virtual Jury Research Part 2

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.