Wilmington Jury Focus Groups
The only mistake you can make with Wilmington jury focus groups is to not use them. Any time you have an opportunity to discuss your case and hear other people’s opinions, you gain very valuable knowledge. Focus groups provide you with an opportunity to gain a better understanding of whether your arguments will resonate with your jurors and use your own creativity to revise your trial strategy as necessary.
Focus Groups vs. Mock Trials
Many attorneys first consider using mock trials when trying to gauge the response of the ultimate juror. Mock trials are useful and they certainly have their place. However, they are very attorney-centric. During a mock trial, attorneys argue their case to mock jurors just as they will during the actual trial. Mock jurors do not interact to the same degree as focus groups do. Instead, their opinions and perspectives are more prevalent in the verdict they arrive at.
On the other hand, focus groups are much more interactive. Attorneys outline just a few of the most important aspects of the case, and not as much detail is given as during a mock trial. Participants in the focus group can also ask questions to gain better understandings, and provide informal opinions that can help shape trial strategy.
Making the Most of a Focus Group
There are many ways to ensure you get the most out of a focus group. Start by explaining that you will present both sides of the case and that there are no wrong answers. Explain that you will present certain facts of the case and that you want to hear the opinions of the participants as you do. You can also ask general questions to identify any biases or preconceptions of participants. For example, if you are trying a case involving a negligent truck driver, you can ask the focus group how they feel about truckers.
Role-playing is also a great way to gauge how focus group participants feel about certain events, or about certain people involved in a case. Using the truck accident example above, you may ask someone in the focus group to take on the role of the truck driver. Other participants can also ask them questions so you can gain valuable insights.
Applying the Information After the Focus Group
Once a focus group has been completed, we will meet with you to discuss what you learned from it and help you determine if you need to adjust your strategy. The knowledge gained from the focus group can help direct discovery, pinpoint themes and the central focus, and help you tell your story in the most impactful manner.
Let Us Help with Your Jury Focus Groups in Wilmington
At MGM Trial Services, Inc., our Wilmington focus groups are immensely helpful to attorneys trying to craft the strongest case possible. We can put our decades of expertise to work for you, too. Call us now at 410-303-7800 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with one of our team members and to learn more about how we can help.
