Trial Strategy in Action: Timelines, Sequencing, and What Wins [Ep 167]
There is a crucial difference between timelines and sequences, and if you want jurors to see your case as plainly as you see it, you need to pay close attention.
Today we explore not just how timelines help jurors understand the case quickly, but why that is: the psychology and brain science behind retaining information. Timelines are a curated visual picture of the case, sequencing is about the order of presenting evidence.
Similar, yet each with their own distinct psychologies.
I know, not all lawyers use timelines, but they can be very effective, and focus groups help you recognize and fine tune what is most likely to register with juries. We want to make things as clear as possible for the jury, so don’t lose your jury because you’re jumping around the timeline. Logic, clarity and chronology that are structured and presented well can make all the difference.
If you want to test your timeline and sequencing presentation on a focus group, book a free call with me.
In this episode, we cover:
- How cognitive science shows that the first information is often assumed to be the first event.
- Why sequencing is essential for guiding jurors to a conclusion.
- How focus groups can help identify key events for timelines.
- Why overloading jurors with information can lead to confusion and undermine your case.
- Both timelines and sequencing are necessary for effective persuasion.
Further links and references from this episode:
Episode 158: Trial Strategy v. Trial Tactics
New Blog post: Which Virtual Focus Group does Your Case Need?
You can also watch today’s episode on my YouTube Channel:
Trial Strategy in Action: Timelines, Sequencing, and What Wins [Ep 167]
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