Understanding the power of words and how they impact jurors' thinking.  eLEX publisher Joe Bodiford explains why "don't" actually means "do" and that simple word can tank your arguments and jeopordize your trial.  Learn some tactics for redirecting jurors' thoughts to what you really need them to think.

If you're like most trial lawyers, December 1st isn't exactly circled on your calendar, unless you're tracking federal rule amendments. Well, December 1, 2025 came and went about two months ago, and it brought some changes worth knowing about. We're now settling into life with new rules governing multidistrict litigation, clearer guidance on privilege logs, and (if we're being honest) still adjusting to that major hearsay amendment from late 2024. Let's break down what actually matters for your practice. The Big One: Rule 16.1 Creates a Roadmap for MDLs Here's something that's never happened before: the federal rules now have...

The California Rules of Evidence saw two major updates in 2024 and 2025 that are already changing how we approach expert testimony and medical peer review protections. We break down what these changes mean for your practice and how to navigate them effectively.

Discover eLEX Publishers' comprehensive collection of legal resources designed specifically for trial lawyers and legal professionals. From quotations and trial notebooks to evidence guides, find the tools you need for courtroom success.

The Power of Preparation: Why Cross-Examination Demands a System When the judge calls, “Cross-examination?”—those few seconds of silence before you rise can feel like a lifetime. That’s when your preparation (or lack thereof) truly shows. Ask any trial lawyer: having a rock-solid system for organizing your attack is non-negotiable. This is where witness worksheets and training videos really shine. Building Strong Foundations: The Modern Approach to Cross Traditionally, cross-examination was treated as gladiatorial: improvise, jab, hope for a knockout. But the profession has evolved. The most effective litigators treat their cross like storytelling, anchored by a case theory (“the plot”),...