The Case on a Single Page

More great ideas from the Trial Lawyer Resource Center.

The Case on a Single Page by trial attorney Gary Hill.

Being overwhelmed by a large case can be demoralizing. Reducing the entire case to a single page can add perspective and a sense of control. Place a single sheet of paper in the landscape position and fold it in half and then in half again. There are now eight sections. Name each section: PreTrial motions, Voir Dire, Opening Statement, Witnesses, Evidence, Charges, Closing Argument. List only what you need in each category to put up your case. This exercise will often point to gaps in the case, suggest themes, or trigger changes in the presentation of the witnesses, evidence or argument. You can also keep this summary of the case in the inside pocket of your suit coat as a security blanket at trial. What a great idea. A very simple way to reduce the case to it’s basics and make certain that you focus on what is important.

The Settlement Equivalent

I prepare for mediations by reducing the parties' factual assertions and legal contentions to a single page of two columns -- placing opposing facts and contentions side by side.  Often, I give the document to the parties so they can:

1.  see what the mediator is thinking (i.e., has she gotten a key point or factual allegation wrong); and,

2.  see their opponent's alternative world hard against their own view of the case.

If you have your own "single page" suggestions, please send them along!