Insights and Analysis

How trial lawyers should tackle science-related presentations

Pathology slide review: Biomedical analyst in a detailed image, identifying disease patterns.
Pathology slide review: Biomedical analyst in a detailed image, identifying disease patterns.

The Bottom Line

  • Litigators managing science-related cases must simplify complex material and genuinely engage with the audience to succeed in their presentation.
  • Experts can help lawyers understand scientific, technical issues, while the right client witnesses can make that information more meaningful to the court and jury.
  • Lawyers should consider using analogies and multiple presentation mediums to enhance explanations.

High-stakes litigation increasingly turns on complex areas of science that many attorneys find themselves underequipped to grapple with effectively. Litigating cases involving intricate science issues presents unique challenges—particularly for those who lack formal education or a natural aptitude in such fields.

Advocates must be prepared to navigate technical evidence, expert testimony, and opposing arguments to effectively advance their client’s position. Whether in written briefs, oral arguments, or the presentation of evidence before a jury, the ability to communicate complex subjects simply and clearly is an art, not a science.

The following tips aim to help experienced litigators manage and present complex scientific issues with confidence and clarity.

Read full article here.

This article is published by Bloomberg Law.

 

 

Authored by Elizabeth (Liz) Och, Lee Whitesell, and Lacey Brown.

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