Browsed by
Author: Paul Luvera

Luvera practiced plaintiff law 55 years. He is past President of the Inner Circle of Advocates & Washington State Trial Lawyers Association. Member ABOTA, American College of Trial Lawyers, International Academy, International Society of Barristers and the American Trial Lawyers Hall of Fame. Book Luvera on Advocacy available at Trial Guides Publishing Email paul@luvera.org
GUARDIANS & COST OF CARE EXPERTS IN PERSONAL INJURY CASES

GUARDIANS & COST OF CARE EXPERTS IN PERSONAL INJURY CASES

In major damage cases involving minors or people whose injuries require a conservator or guardian, my practice was to have the appointment made at the time the lawsuit was commenced and to call the guardian as a witness at trial to explain their role. I wanted to be able to reassure the jury that  any verdict awarded would be protected for the injured client’s benefit. Here’s a rough outline of the general points I try to cover on direct: Qualifications:…

Read More Read More

PHRASES THAT CONVEY MEANING

PHRASES THAT CONVEY MEANING

Here are some thoughts about subjects relating to juries. I begin with some examples of themes or framing of issues from actual opening statements from my cases. The goal here is to use language which will convey meaning.  Perhaps something here will stimulate your thinking about a case you have. School liability In this case a school physical education teacher allowed children to leave the gym and go on a run off of school property and return without supervision. A…

Read More Read More

THOUGHTS ABOUT JURY SELECTION

THOUGHTS ABOUT JURY SELECTION

Robert Hirschhorn is a jury consultant our firm has employed in the past. He has suggested useful ideas about jury selection. One of his recommendations was to ask the jury  these questions, particularly where time is limited for jury selection: Describe yourself in a few words Tell us several names of people you admire Name three people you do not admire or respect If you or a loved one were injured by negligence would you sue  for the injuries? Written…

Read More Read More