Civil cases involve legal rights and obligations and can range from personal injury claims to contract disputes to property disputes. Usually, parties in a civil case hire lawyers who specialize in civil cases, called litigators, to represent them in court and negotiate on their behalf.
When it comes to civil cases, the skills of a professional litigator can greatly affect the outcome. Let’s explain how.
Firstly, a trial comes much later and is probably 20% of the entire case. A skilled litigator conducts thorough research and investigation to gather relevant evidence and facts before a case goes to trial and argues in court for relevant details to be allowed to enter into evidence that supports their client’s position and weakens the opponent’s. Once at trial, they use legal precedents and arguments to persuade the judge or jury in favor of their client’s case.
Secondly, a litigator can communicate effectively and persuasively with different audiences, including the judge and jury, witnesses, experts, mediators, arbitrators, and opposing counsel. During opening and closing arguments, they can tailor their communication style and tone to suit the situation and audience and use rhetorical techniques such as storytelling, analogies, emotions, logic, and humor to engage and influence the jury.
Lastly, a skilled litigator can strategize and adapt to changing circumstances and challenges in a civil case. They can anticipate and counter the opponent’s moves and objections, negotiate favorable settlements or alternative dispute resolutions when appropriate, and handle unexpected events with professionalism.
Apart from the skills previously mentioned, there are other elements that can influence the result of a civil case. For instance, the trial’s location can play a role, as different areas may have varying legal precedents and views on specific kinds of cases. Additionally, the length of a civil case can differ significantly based on the intricacy of the matters at hand and the tactics used by the parties involved.
By having appropriate legal representation, individuals involved in a civil case can improve their likelihood of obtaining a positive result and safeguarding their legal rights and responsibilities.