Personal Injury Law

Winning a Trial, Part I

By Alan Ripka

The mystery of trying a case fascinates lawyers and laypeople alike. The apprehension of standing before a judge and jury, while arguing your client's position, can be paralyzing. It is at that moment in time, however, when this advocate reaches deep within and finds the words and level of emotion needed to deliver the point. This reaction is based upon years of experience, intense preparation, and the desire to prove right from wrong. It all adds up to standing tall and dissecting your opponents arguments with focus and articulation.

The courtroom is an intimidating, living, breathing creature that contains many moving parts including a jaw filled with razor sharp teeth (the justice system itself), says trial lawyer Alan Ripka. The navigation through this maze of traps must be done with clarity and efficiency. This requires substantive and procedural knowledge of the law, as well as knowing all the persons involved in the courtroom, especially the Judge. Your adversary, court clerk, Judges legal secretary, court officer, and stenographer ALL play a role in the outcome of a trial lawyer's case. Each individual who comes and goes from the courtroom, the temperature, the level of lighting, and even the comfort of the jurors' chairs will affect the verdict. Thus this advocate does everything possible, within the rules, to cause this hall of justice to roar for his or her client.

It all begins when I step in front of the courthouse. My demeanor, mannerisms, dress, confidence and humility are all alive and obvious to all of the potential jurors to see and observe. The import of making no errors early on, especially, is paramount. Holding doors, apologizing, and assisting others creates the preliminary framework for the trial that has, theoretically, already begun. Let others exit elevator first, don't speak on phone loudly, or bustle through the hallways as if you were more important than anyone else, to name a few more. The slightest mistake and loss of focus will be irreversible. We are dealing with human beings who will NOT find for you and your client if they do not LIKE you. And to think, the "official" trial hasn't begun yet.

If you or a loved one has been wronged, you may be in need of a trial. The professional team of lawyers at Napoli Bern Ripka Law Firm can evaluate your situation and determine the next steps to gain justice for you and your family. Napoli Bern Ripka, LLP has fought against large companies in other matters and will fight for you if we believe you have a potential case for medical malpractice, products liability, personal injury, and is prepared to go to court and have a trial if necessary. Please call our office and ask for Alan Ripka, one of our partners.

Full post as published by New York City Personal Injury Lawyer on June 17, 2010 (boomark / email).