Research and Consulting Services

Evaluation Services Conducted Before Trial

Focus Groups: These structured discussion groups allow early analysis of how jurors will perceive the parties and key case issues. This research yields recommendations concerning litigation strategies, case themes, graphics needs and jury selection criteria.

Attitude Surveys: Quantitative surveys of potential jurors provide statistically-reliable data on the pre-existing attitudes, case facts, themes and arguments that have the greatest impact on verdicts. In addition, they produce profiles of "good" and "bad" jurors.

Mock Trials: Mock trials allow you to test the key elements of a case in a format that resembles the actual trial process. "Jurors" can hear a judge's introduction of the case, opening statements, direct and cross examination of witnesses, closing arguments and jury instructions. They then deliberate the case using an appropriate verdict form and reach a verdict. A debriefing interview clarifies what jurors saw as the crucial elements of the case, which witnesses and exhibits were most effective, what information they found confusing and how they reacted to the attorneys. Mock trials also have strong rehearsal value for the actual trial.

Witness Preparation: Workshops using videotaped feedback of simulated direct and cross examination can help ensure that testimony is as clear and convincing as possible.

Consultation Services in Conjunction With Trial

Jury Selection: Using data from the empirical research conducted before trial, we develop profiles to guide the use of peremptory and for-cause challenges. Since successful jury selection depends on asking prospective jurors the right questions, we also use the research results to develop effective voir dire questions and written questionnaires. In-court jury selection consultation can also be provided.

Trial Monitoring: In order to monitor reactions to actual trial events, we recruit "shadow" jurors who attend trial and are interviewed daily about their reactions to attorneys, witnesses, evidence and other critical trial elements. This feedback is relayed to the trial team prior to the next session. Alternatively, a research professional can monitor the trial and advise the trial team.

Post Trial Interviews: Interviews with jurors who sat on the trial provide you with valuable feedback on your strategies, performance and jury selection decisions.