How to Prepare for a Civil Trial
If you have a civil trial in your near future, the best way to approach the trial is to prepare for it. Whether you're representing yourself or hiring a lawyer, it's always smart to be ready by knowing everything you can before the trial begins. Act as your own lawyer, even if you have representation. Here's some ways to prepare for a civil trial.
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Instructions
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Start months before the trial begins. This gives you time to get any missing material you might need, to talk to witnesses and gather any evidence you might use in court.
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Read over all documents pertaining to your case, including statements, depositions and exhibits. Go over your own deposition. Make sure your story is consistent and that you have all facts straight before the trial begins.
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Make note of any weaknesses in your case. Find if there's anything the other side can use against you. Anticipate any holes in your case that opposing parties may try to take advantage of.
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Prepare an outline for the various phases of the trial. Outline your evidence presentation, cross-examination and closing arguments. Include exhibits where necessary.
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Assemble and organize all of your material into a trial notebook, a tool most lawyers use. Make copies for yourself, your lawyer, the judge, your witnesses and the other side's lawyer, if it has one.
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Tips & Warnings
Even if you're not using a lawyer's service for the civil trial, consult with one after you assemble all of your material to get some legal advice.
Check out "Represent Yourself in Court: How to Prepare & Try a Winning Case" by attorneys Paul Bergman and Sara J. Berman-Barrett.
