Part I - Reading the Jury

In this special guest episode of his "The Trial Lawyer's Handbook" podcast series, litigation attorney Dan Small interviews Paul Kiernan, a partner at Holland & Knight and chair of the firm's Public and Charitable Service Department. Mr. Kiernan reflects on a recent jury trial he won and emphasizes the importance of making a strong impression on the jury throughout the trial. He says he believes that trial lawyers should always act as if they are on stage and must be aware of their presentation before the trial even starts. The two attorneys also highlight the value of being allowed to talk to the jury after a case, an educational opportunity that Mr. Small describes as "too rare." Additionally, Mr. Kiernan urges lawyers to focus on the jury, rather than the witnesses, in order to identify and engage with the leaders of the group who will have more influence on the ultimate verdict.