CRJSI’s services include:

 

Focus Groups

Focus Groups are research tools that afford attorneys the opportunity to meet with mock jurors in a conference room atmosphere. Mock jurors who reflect the community are carefully screened and recruited. Attorneys then present both sides of their case to the mock jurors in a story-like, opening statement style. Next, mock jurors are read instructions on the law and given a verdict form. Mock jurors are then left to deliberate. Deliberations are monitored via closed-circuit television. After arriving at a verdict, CRJSI then moderates a question and answer session which is designed to scrutinize the thinking processes of the mock jurors and evaluate the persuasiveness of selected documents, evidence, and arguments. Attorneys can also participate in these post-deliberation interviews. Finally, mock jurors complete post-deliberation questionnaires. The entire session is video taped. A series of focus groups is normally run to facilitate the fine tuning of a case.


Mock Trials

Mock trials are a more elaborate form of research than focus groups. In a mock trial, attorneys present both sides of their case to a mock jury in an actual courtroom setting. The presentation simulates a trial in all respects, including:

voir dire • preliminary instructions • opening statements
direct and cross examination of witnesses • closing arguments

Mock jurors are then given substantive instructions on the law, and are sent to deliberate. Deliberations are monitored via closed-circuit television. After arriving at a verdict, CRJSI then moderates a question and answer session which is designed to scrutinize the thinking processes of the mock jurors and evaluate the persuasiveness of selected documents, evidence, and arguments. Attorneys can also participate in these post-deliberation interviews. Finally, mock jurors complete post-deliberation questionnaires. The entire session is video taped. Mock trials can be conducted individually, but are best utilized at the end of a series of focus groups.

Juror Attitude Studies

Through community attitude research, CRJSI is able to survey individual opinions. This approach gains insight into the community’s awareness of the case and the issues surrounding it, and can identify any pre-trial publicity biases that may have formed. This type of research also assists in developing juror profiles and can begin to gauge liability and damage ranges. Additionally, CRJSI can apply this research to the design of pre-trial questionnaires and can use the results to assist with change of venue motions. CRJSI also can conduct post-trial interviews with jurors. This feedback can be extremely useful, especially when similar litigation my be pending.

 

Witness Preparation

witnesses need preparation for depositions as well as for trial. CRJSI can help improve witness demeanor, clarity and overall performance by incorporating the witness into a focus group/mock trial setting, or by using individual video-taped sessions. CRJSI helps both the attorney and the witness use better communication skills to get the message across, as well as prepare the witness for cross-examination and jury scrutiny.

 

Demonstrative Exhibit Review & Consultation

A picture can either be worth a thousand words or can cause mass confusion. The right demonstrative is often the turning point for many jurors if they can understand it. CRJSI assists in designing the most effective demonstratives, as well as improving upon existing graphics, charts, letters, animated videos, day-in-the-life videos, settlement brochures, etc.

In addition, CRJSI helps attorneys select the most appropriate medium for presenting demonstratives. State of the art computer systems can be utilized to get the message across in the most efficient manner, especially when large amounts of documents need to be called upon at a moment’s notice. However, simple charts, graphs and blow-ups could still be the best approach. Our jury research can assist in choosing the best method.

Individual Case Review & Consultation/Opening Statement Development

CRJSI also offers individual case review and consultation. One of our expert consultants meets with you to review key documents and evidence, and then helps to design an effective, succinct opening statement. Additional recommendations for trial strategy and jury selection are also provided.