Free Trial Preparation Checklist Template
Trial Preparation Checklist
Prepared by: [YOUR NAME]
Company: [YOUR COMPANY NAME]
Date: [DATE]
Case Review and Organization
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Review all pleadings, motions, and court rulings |
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Organize case files, including evidence and exhibits. |
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Confirm all discovery has been completed. |
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Verify deadlines for filings, motions, and objections. |
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Review applicable laws, statutes, and case precedents. |
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Prepare a case timeline with key events. |
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Evidence and Exhibits
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Identify and list all evidence to be presented |
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Ensure all exhibits are labeled and marked per court rules. |
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Verify the admissibility of evidence and prepare responses to potential objections. |
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Create copies of all exhibits for opposing counsel and the court. |
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Prepare demonstrative aids (charts, videos, diagrams, etc.) |
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Confirm availability of physical evidence and arrange transportation to court. |
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Witness Preparation
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Identify and confirm all witnesses |
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Schedule meetings to prepare witnesses for testimony |
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Provide witnesses with case details and potential questions. |
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Review key testimony points with witnesses. |
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Prepare cross-examination strategies for opposing witnesses. |
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Subpoena witnesses as necessary |
|
Legal Documents and Filings
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
File pre-trial motions (e.g., motions in limine) |
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Prepare and file witness and exhibit lists. |
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Draft opening and closing statements |
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Prepare voir dire questions for jury selection. |
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Create jury instructions and submit them to the court. |
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Organize legal research and citations for quick reference. |
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Logistics and Scheduling
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Confirm the trial date, time, and location with the court |
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Arrange for court reporters, interpreters, or other personnel as needed. |
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Confirm technology needs for presenting evidence in court. |
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Verify accommodations for witnesses, clients, and team members. |
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Prepare a trial schedule and share it with all relevant parties. |
|
Team Preparation
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Assign roles to each team member (e.g., questioning, evidence presentation) |
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Hold a pre-trial meeting to review strategies and responsibilities. |
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Practice direct and cross-examinations with the team. |
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Conduct mock trials to refine arguments and presentations. |
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Ensure all team members are familiar with case details and key documents. |
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Jury Preparation
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Develop a juror profile for ideal jury selection |
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Prepare voir dire questions to identify biases. |
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Research potential jurors if permitted |
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Prepare strategies for jury rapport and communication. |
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Review methods for presenting a clear and compelling case |
|
Day of Trial
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Arrive early to the courthouse with all materials |
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Verify courtroom setup and functionality of the equipment. |
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Ensure all witnesses are present and prepared. |
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Confirm delivery of exhibits and evidence to the courtroom. |
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Review opening statements and key arguments. |
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Ensure the client understands the trial process and expectations. |
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Post-Trial Follow-Up
Task |
Completed (✓) |
---|---|
Debrief with the legal team to review trial performance |
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File any necessary post-trial motions (e.g., appeals, motions for new trial) |
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Ensure all trial materials are returned and securely stored. |
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Communicate trial outcomes and next steps to the client. |
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