Philadelphia Trial Theme Development
Going to trial is like a major sporting event in many ways. You spend countless hours preparing, practicing, reviewing your game plan and film and ultimately, you are either going to win or lose. However, going to trial is much more challenging in certain ways. The landscape is constantly changing and there is always a lack of certainty. Due to the intensely adversarial atmosphere of a trial, Philadelphia trial theme development is key, as it will help you remain on track while telling your client’s story.
What is a Trial Theme?
Trial themes are usually most effective when they highlight an ideal held by society. These ideals should be something no one can really deny is righteous. A trial theme should be simple, easy to understand, and indisputable. Consider your theme as being your mantra during every phase of the trial, from voir dire to your closing statement.
Most of the time, there is one main theme at trial. This does not necessarily mean that there may not be other, smaller themes applicable to certain elements of a case. Selecting your theme well before you go to trial can help organize your preparation and thoughts.
Common Trial Themes
There are times when you may be able to come up with a unique theme for a particular case. However, there is nothing wrong with relying on common trial themes that have been used effectively in the past. Some common trial themes include:
- A betrayal of trust
- Taking full responsibility
- A false sense of security
- Making up for the harm caused
- Profits over patients
- With power comes responsibility
- Public safety
- Corporate greed at the expense of safety
- A picture says a thousand words
- Your eyes do not lie
The theme you choose should be something jurors would agree is a unifying value of society. This will allow your theme to unite the jury as you present your case.
Testing Your Trial Theme
There are many ways to test your trial theme to determine if it is effective. During a mock trial you can present your theme in your opening statement, when questioning witnesses, and in your closing argument. The verdict received in a mock trial can indicate whether your trial theme is going to be successful.
Focus groups are another effective way to test your trial theme. Focus groups are not as formal as mock trials and they also do not usually take as long. Additionally, you can typically conduct a focus group earlier on in the process, giving you more time to revise your theme, if necessary. Our trial preparation specialists can conduct a focus group and a mock trial to ensure everyone is properly prepared.
Learn More About Trial Theme Development in Philadelphia from Our Specialists
At MGM Trial Services, Inc., our Philadelphia trial theme development specialists can help you create a theme evident in all aspects of your case so you can prove your client’s case in a manner that is easy for jurors to understand. Call us today at 410-303-7800 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.
