NCJ Number
170771
Journal
Trial Volume: 33 Issue: 10 Dated: (October 1997) Pages: 60-63
Date Published
1997
Length
4 pages
Annotation
A New Orleans attorney who represented the plaintiff in a case that involved a vehicle collision and that was tried in a Cajun community in Louisiana advises trial lawyers on issues and techniques to consider before and during jury selection, particularly if the case is to be tried in a forum out of town or out of State.
Abstract
The author advises attorneys to admit what they do not know and do not understand. They should also associate with local attorneys for advice about local attitudes and for assistance in voir dire if the case is tried in an unfamiliar jurisdiction. They should also approach voir dire as a foundation for presenting the entire case. They need to establish a rapport with jurors and make it clear during voir dire that they know the facts and issues of the case. They should relax and avoid displaying nervous mannerisms. Other recommendations are to divide the voir dire into an introduction, a body, and a conclusion and to give prospective jurors the impression that the plaintiff will provide all the facts and the truth, has faith that a fair jury has been selected, and cares about what each juror thinks and feels. Attorneys should recognize that they are attempting to find people with whom they are most able to communicate and who will receive their client's message favorably, because communication precedes persuasion. Additional recommendations and 4 references