Beyond the Obvious: Using Focus Groups to Expose Hidden Dimensions of Liability

Ever wondered how focus groups could be the game-changer for navigating complex liability issues in civil litigation? Imagine unlocking jurors’ hidden perspectives and using these insights to your strategic advantage. This episode takes you through real-world applications, like contributory negligence in construction injuries or multiple defendants in medical malpractice cases. We dive into the nuances of a recent car crash case involving seatbelt usage to show you how a layered presentation strategy can yield invaluable insights.

We also discuss the crucial practice of conducting and recording debrief sessions right after focus groups. Learn why transcribing and creating memo reports can elevate your mediation preparation and case strategy. From clarifying responsibility to uncovering critical facts, we lay out how focus groups can help frame information for the best outcomes. Plus, we offer practical resources and invite you to join our email list for upcoming courses on running your own focus groups. Don’t miss out on these essential techniques that could transform your approach to complex liability cases.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Navigating a common challenge in civil litigation: problematic liability
  • The value of a layered presentation strategy 
  • The role of focus groups to uncover hidden factors in complex liability cases
  • The importance of conducting and recording debrief sessions immediately

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Supporting Resources:

In the episode, I mentioned Episode 112 where we look at a specific case example for flipping contested liability and expanded blog.

Are you interested in taking my online course: Virtual Focus Group Foundations Workshop?

Please register for my email list and you will receive the announcement when the course is offered again.

Register here: https://larricklawfirm.com/connect/

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Trial Lawyer John Prudhomme Analyzes How His Virtual Focus Group Compared to the Real Jury Trial

Join us as we speak with John Prudhomme from CPM Injury Lawyers about a gripping case involving a fuel tanker rear-ending a dump truck on I-35. Despite undeniable footage and an outright admission from the tanker driver, the defense stood firm with no settlement offers. Find out how a virtual focus group became a game-changer in predicting jury perceptions and why the trial venue added layers of complexity to an already dramatic case.

John also shares insights from a case involving a veteran client whose trial took an unexpected turn. We discuss how the jury’s interest veered from medical details to family dynamics, revealing the nuanced way personal stories can sway verdicts. With veterans on the jury panel and collateral source issues lurking in the background, emphasizing the family impact became crucial. Tune in to hear how highway speed regulations and surveillance footage reshaped the narrative and influenced the jury’s decisions.

We also get into the nitty-gritty of trial strategies and financial considerations. From life care plans to the client’s lifestyle choices, find out how these elements played a crucial role in the jury’s perception. John emphasizes the unpredictable nature of trials, the importance of expert testimonies, and the critical role of pre-trial preparations. This episode is a goldmine of insights for any trial lawyer seeking to refine their skills and connect more effectively with juries

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Case study: fuel tanker rear-ending a dump truck on I-35.
  • Utilizing virtual focus groups to understand jury perceptions and defense strategies
  • Adjusting trial tactics based on real-time feedback
  • Challenges of dealing with surveillance evidence and unexpected jury reactions
  • The critical role of life care plans and financial implications in influencing jury decisions
  • Importance of pre-trial preparations and adapting to unpredictable trial elements

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Would you like to talk to John Prudhomme about his experience? Questions about his trial?

You can reach out to John by email: jprudhomme@caglefirm.com 

Learn more about John’s practice here: https://www.caglefirm.com/ 

If you are interested in working with me on a focus group, please book a free call using this link: www.calendly.com/elizabethlarrick

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Montana Plaintiff Lawyer Keif Storrar Explains His Firms Approach to DIY Focus Groups

What if rethinking your approach to trial preparation could transform your outcomes in court? Join us as we uncover the journey of Keif Storrar, a partner at Doubek, Pyfer & Storrar, who revolutionized his firm’s use of focus groups after attending Don Keenan’s Edge Colleges in 2018. Keif walks us through the shift from using focus groups sporadically for catastrophic injury cases to a more systematic and frequent application. Learn how his firm navigated the transition to virtual formats during the pandemic, the logistics of consistent implementation, and the intriguing possibility of creating a dedicated business entity for managing focus groups. 

Keif also shares invaluable strategies on leveraging focus groups for witness credibility, case development, and testing deposition clips. This episode dives into the evolving landscape of online survey focus groups, offering a wider audience perspective on damages, and the critical importance of honing case themes early. We tackle the nuts and bolts of running virtual focus groups, emphasizing effective recruitment and fraud prevention. If you’re looking to refine your approach or start fresh with focus groups, we provide practical tips and strategies to streamline the implementation process. 

In this episode, you will hear:

  • The logistics and benefits of implementing focus groups regularly
  • Evaluating witness credibility and shaping case development
  • The advantages of using focus groups to test deposition clips
  • Virtual focus group recruitment strategies
  • The differences between virtual and in-person recruitment

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Would you like to talk to Keif about his focus group experience? Have a case in Montana?

You can contact Keif by email: keif@lawyerinmontana.com 

Website: https://lawyerinmontana.com/keif-storrar/ 

Are you interested in taking my online course: Virtual Focus Group Foundations Workshop?

Please register for my email list and you will receive the announcement when the course is offered again.

Register here: https://larricklawfirm.com/connect/

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Personal Injury Lawyers: Watch out for THIS Harmful Assumption You May be Making In Your Cases

Can you really trust your instincts when it comes to trial preparation? In this episode, we uncover the hidden pitfalls of overestimating evidence clarity and the transformative power of focus groups. Drawing from extensive experience with over a thousand focus groups, we reveal why lawyer assumptions often miss the mark and how understanding the jury’s perspective can be a game-changer in the courtroom.

Learn practical examples of cases where the evidence seemed crystal clear but proved to be surprisingly ambiguous. We’ll also discuss the importance of not relying solely on recent jury verdicts or seasoned instincts and explore how focus groups can offer invaluable insights into how jurors interpret evidence. Don’t miss this essential guide for trial lawyers aiming to refine their courtroom strategy and build stronger connections with juries.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Why you shouldn’t base your assumptions solely on experience or recent jury verdicts
  • Video evidence revealing driver’s responsibility
  • Challenges with video evidence in court
  • Avoiding communication mistakes in legal strategy

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Want to learn more inside tips and tricks for jury research and focus groups?

Sign up for Elizabeth’s monthly email list by visiting: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

How Can a 1-Hour Virtual Focus Group Save You Time In Your Civil Litigation Docket?

Can a one-hour virtual focus group transform your trial preparation? In this episode of Trial Lawyer Prep, we uncover the groundbreaking benefits of incorporating virtual focus groups into your litigation strategy. By pinpointing what juries truly want to know from the outset, you can streamline your discovery and deposition processes, ultimately saving time and resources. Whether you’re navigating personal injury, employment law, or criminal defense, learn how this innovative approach to case preparation can align your strategy with jury expectations, enhancing your courtroom success.

Join us as we break down the strategic advantages for different types of cases, from car crashes to medical malpractice. We also dive into the intricacies of using virtual focus groups to identify key testimony areas, sift through complex violations, and prioritize the most impactful issues. Plus, learn follow-up instructions to ensure you maximize the effectiveness of these sessions and be ready to revolutionize your litigation practice. 

In this episode, you will hear:

  • The benefits of using virtual focus groups to refine case strategies
  • Understanding key issues in car crash, trucking, and medical malpractice cases
  • Efficient case preparation through third-party opinions

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Want to learn more inside tips and tricks for jury research and focus groups?

Sign up for Elizabeth’s monthly email list by visiting: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect 

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

The Plaintiff Lawyer Mindset Shift to Make When Running Your Focus Groups

Have you ever stepped into a focus group with the battle-ready mindset of a courtroom lawyer, only to realize it’s like bringing a sword to a tea party? Joins us to untangle the art of moderation, guiding attorneys through the key mindset shifts that can transform focus group feedback into pure gold for trial prep. 

Understand the nuanced dance between asking questions and listening intently – emphasizing the power of neutrality and curiosity to coax out the raw, genuine insights that are so crucial to understanding how a jury might think. From a checklist that strips away legal jargon and biases, to the delicate skill of presenting cases in everyday language, this episode is a masterclass in the subtleties of legal research. 

Whether you’re seasoned in the world of focus groups or stepping into this space for the first time, this conversation is a vital tool for any attorney looking to connect more deeply with clients and juries. Tune in and learn how to steer clear of confrontational instincts that can muddy the waters of valuable feedback, and how to lay the groundwork for focus groups that truly inform and enhance your trial strategies.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • The need for lawyers to shift mindset to a neutral focus group moderator
  • Techniques for bias-free legal focus group research
  • Mock juries vs. focus groups in trial prep
  • Using neutral language and open-ended questions for authentic feedback
  • A detailed checklist for attorneys to organize and guide focus groups
  • The value of focus groups in enhancing cases by understanding jury perspectives

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Want to learn more inside tips and tricks for jury research and focus groups?

Sign up for Elizabeth’s monthly email list by visiting: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Tulsa Lawyer Ashley Leavitt and Her Love/Hate Relationship with Opening Statement Virtual Focus Groups

Learn how to revolutionize your trial strategy with the wisdom of Tulsa attorney Ashley Leavitt. Ashley joins me in this episode to discuss virtual focus groups, which are shaping the way lawyers prepare for trial. Our conversation explores the nuanced ways in which these online platforms are not just convenient but also powerful tools for eliciting unguarded insights from participants. 

We talk candidly about the edge virtual groups give – from capturing subtle emotional cues to the ability to analyze reactions and discussions at leisure – ensuring no vital piece of feedback is overlooked. Ashley and I traverse the landscape of legal preparation, sharing personal stories of how virtual focus groups have helped refine courtroom approach. From the challenge of simplifying complex information to the strategic selection of evidence and the artful use of visuals, we dissect the elements that can make or break a case in the eyes of a jury. We delve into the psychology behind certain words and the unexpected power they wield, revealing how even the title “engineer” can sway perceptions. 

This episode is an essential listen for those eager to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving arena of trial law. Join us for a session brimming with strategic insights and heartfelt revelations that promise to enhance not only your legal prowess but also your client relationships.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Comparing virtual and in-person focus groups’ benefits
  • Simplifying complex data and strategic evidence selection for juries
  • Impact of terminology and visuals on jury perceptions
  • Case study: roof damage claims and virtual focus groups
  • Managing client expectations using focus group feedback
  • Enhancing legal approach and client relations via online jury analysis

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

To learn more about Ashley Leavitt please visit: https://www.kollertriallaw.com/

If you need to reach Ashley for help with a first part insurance claim in Oklahoma, please email her directly at: Ashley@kollertriallaw.com  

Want to learn more inside tips and tricks for focus groups? Sign up for Elizabeth’s monthly email list by visiting: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Contested Liability: How Virtual Focus Groups Flipped Responsibility Away from the Plaintiff

In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of a gripping courtroom drama, unraveling the intricate process of using virtual focus groups for a trial’s success. Let’s explore the case of an 18-wheeler collision through the eyes of Fidel Rodriguez, Jr., a seasoned trial lawyer, and discover how he harnessed the power of virtual focus groups to transform the case narrative. We’ll dissect the importance of visual evidence, tackle jury confusion, and reveal how meticulous tweaks based on focus group insights can lead to pivotal changes in a jury trial’s outcome.

This episode is more than just a recount of legal strategy – it’s a lesson in psychological finesse, where we reveal the courtroom as a theater and jurors as the audience whose verdict can pivot on a single piece of evidence. We walk through the dramatic transformation of a high-stakes liability case, scrutinizing every nuance from opening statements to surveillance footage. Take this front-row seat to witness the meticulous crafting of a winning case, proving that sometimes, the path to justice is through the screen of a virtual focus group.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • The importance of visual evidence
  • Addressing jury confusion points
  • Shaping the case’s narrative based on focus group feedback
  • Pivoting strategies based on juror insights

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

To get more details about the sequence of virtual focus groups, check out the blog: https://larricklawfirm.com/case-study-how-virtual-focus-groups-flipped-disputed-liability/ 

Ever wondered about setting up your own virtual focus group system? 

A system that could easily produce a virtual focus group that allows you to test your cases with lower cost and stress. 

Well, I am setting up an online course for lawyers to do just that on May 1st. But you need to be on my email list to get access, use this link: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Rian Butler & Focus Group Success

Ever wondered how trial lawyers can peer into the minds of a jury before setting foot in the courtroom? Rian Butler, a battle-tested attorney from Austin joins today’s discussion to unveil the secret weapon of litigation: focus groups. 

Rian illustrates how a focus group’s fresh eyes can reveal critical aspects that attorneys might miss. Our candid conversation exposes the strategic edge that focus groups provide in sculpting arguments and honing in on ways to genuinely connect with jurors through compelling narratives. 

Navigating the modern landscape of trial preparation, we swap tales of virtual and in-person focus group dynamics. The episode is packed with practical advice on keeping participants on the edge of their seats and how multimedia presentations can solidify an argument’s impact. 

In this episode, you will hear:

  • The importance of focus groups in litigation
  • The challenges and strategies of conducting virtual and in-person focus groups for trial preparation
  • Understanding jurors’ perspectives
  • Adaptability to trial schedules
  • Unexpected jury deliberation outcomes

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Learn more about Rian Butler and his Austin law practice: www.butlerinjury.com 

Ever wondered about setting up your own virtual focus group system? A system that could easily produce a virtual focus group to test your cases with lower cost and stress. Well, I am setting up an online course for lawyers to do just that on May 1st. But you need to be on my email list to get access, use this link: www.larricklawfirm.com/connect

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know I sent you.

Virtual Focus Group: Face-to-Face Interaction You Can’t Replicate In Person

Virtual Focus Groups give a unique view into juror’s minds and facial expressions. Join me for a riveting discussion about the new frontier of legal preparation. Get an insider’s perspective on how virtual focus groups have revolutionized how we examine participant feedback, scrutinize facial reactions, and dissect video evidence – all crucial in today’s camera-laden society. I’ll guide you through the nuances of camera setups and recording settings on platforms like Zoom to capture every critical detail. 

This episode is a must-listen for any legal professional eager to polish their trial strategy with the power of digital tools. Whether you’re looking to access case studies, master presentation tools, or seeking aids for your trial approach, this conversation is a treasure trove of best practices and expert guidance. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to elevate your practice with the insights from our latest session – where we go beyond the screen to bring the court to life, virtually.

In this episode, you will hear:

  • Best practices with virtual focus groups
  • Importance of close face-to-face interaction
  • Virtual focus groups improve video content
  • Optimizing zoom settings for focus groups 

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

Want to work with Elizabeth? Need a virtual focus group for a difficult case?

Set up a free consultation call: https://calendly.com/elizabethlarrick/30min

Website: www.larricklawfirm.com

Episode Credits:

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know I sent you.