We all know that every professional sports’ team goes into game-day after practicing the plays, signals, researching the opponent, preparing for the venue, etc. Take the NFL, for example. Teams practice for six days before a mere 3-hour game, which follows. Clearly, a trial will last longer than three hours, and is more substantial than a “game,” and the trial-rehearsal necessary is only a fraction of the time of the actual trial itself. This is why, more than ever, lawyers are taking advantage of the benefits of a few hours of mock jury exercises.
Whether the trial takes place, or not, you may be well informed and settlement-ready if you take a day to conduct a mock jury proceeding. Mock Jury events give litigators the knowledge-base needed to determine which messages are sticking, which arguments are working best, which mannerisms should be avoided, and the juror characteristics that are best for the case.
Here are 4 reasons you need a mock jury before entering the trial.
Find Your Flaws
Mock Jury rehearsal allows you to apply your knowledge of the case, and test out what works for you and your client’s position, while learning from the experiences in a safe environment.
Try Something New
Rehearsing before a mock jury is important because it allows you to practice different theories, claims or defenses, before you actually deliver the total speech to a jury at trial. Some jurors will surprise you as to what penetrates and what should be avoided.
Perfect Your Flow
When you practice your position in front of a mock jury, you are ultimately able to put the effective-parts together to create a total speech and practice before eventually delivering it in front of the trial-audience. We can all use some rehearsal on our public speaking skills, especially with the different juror pools you can expect from venue to venue.
Receive Honest Feedback
Mock Jury exercises afford various forms of feedback, which is typically recorded, for the litigator to make the necessary adjustments to their case-strategies. Most mock juror sessions end with a verdict questionnaire, Q&A exercises, and feedback for specific evidence and theories.
When all is said and done, rehearsal provides opportunities to apply knowledge to practice different parts, see what works, and then put it together for a total, effective position, for your opening, examination, and closing.
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Source: Boundless. “The Importance of Rehearsing.” Boundless Communications. Boundless, 26 May. 2016.
