Preparation for Civil Trials: A Practical Guide for Attorneys and Advocates

Trial preparation is a process that often commences immediately after the close of pleadings. It involves what may be categorised as: external procedural steps directed at the opposing litigant or third parties, such as requesting further particulars and replying to requests, making discovery and subpoenaing witnesses; internal acts of preparation, such as identifying the issues in a matter, determining the witnesses required to be called, preparing to lead and cross-examine witnesses and undertaking research on law. An extensive range of the steps to be taken are dealt with in this book. Where they involve matters of procedural and related law, the basic principles are set out and practical advice is given to assist in deciding when and how to use these legal procedures. Practical steps to prepare for trial are also dealt with in a manner that can be readily understood. To explain abstract concepts, several examples of pleadings in different types of actions (in an appendix) are used as illustrations. Key Benefits Assists attorneys and counsel to identify and expand upon the various steps involved in the preparation for trial in a civil matter Provides novel, but relatively simple, tools to aid the process of preparation Offers aspirant and junior practitioners€™ access to a substantial checklist of the matters to be attended to, as well as instruction on how to pursue various steps in the course of preparation The book is also a useful reference for senior practitioners who seek advice on specific topics and new approaches to matters of preparation on a practical level.