Fairfax Jury Focus Groups
As an attorney, you know how critical jury research is to any trial. Conducting this research can allow you to examine the themes and evidence in your case in front of individuals who are similar to the jurors who will ultimately decide your case. Effective research can help you identify the strongest points of your case while also minimizing potential weaknesses. After these case points have been identified, a lawyer can determine the best approach to take, whether that is proceeding to trial and arguing their case or engaging in settlement negotiations.
A main component of jury research is mock trials. While these do have certain benefits, they also have certain disadvantages. Below, one of our Fairfax jury focus groups specialists outlines how a more informal setting is more beneficial than mock trials.
What are the Disadvantages of a Mock Trial?
Mock trials are a very conventional method of assessing legal cases before they are heard by an actual jury. Throughout a mock trial, attorneys will represent the different sides of a case and present arguments and evidence to a group of mock jurors. The attorneys will also make opening and closing arguments and witnesses can testify either in-person or remotely. Once the mock jurors have heard all sides of a case, they will reach a decision.
Although lawyers often use mock trials, they do have certain disadvantages. These are as follows:
- Simulating arguments for the other side can be challenging
- Mock trials can highlight weaknesses in a case that it may be too late to correct the issue
- Different presenters in a case can have differing levels of advocacy
- There are often not enough resources to properly analyze a case
Jury Focus Groups vs. Mock Trials
Many people think focus groups are the same as mock trials, but they are different. Focus groups cannot replicate every element of a real trial and they are also not as combative. Instead of the focus group hearing every fact in a case, they are only told of the main themes and exhibits. During a focus group, only one person provides the evidence and themes in a case using supplemental documents and other evidence that highlights the facts of a case.
The fact that there is only one presenter is one of the benefits of jury focus groups. This allows participants to focus mainly on the facts of the case. Attorneys also do not have to wait until they have all the facts of a case, meaning focus groups can be conducted before a mock trial.
We Can Help with Your Jury Focus Groups in Fairfax
Our Fairfax jury focus groups consultants at MGM Trial Services, Inc. can help conduct your group so you can develop a better understanding of any potential jurors in your case and the decisions they may make. If you are going to trial, call us first at 410-303-7800 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation with one of our knowledgeable consultants and to learn more about how we can help.
