As we head into November, the beginning of winter marks the start of Law Skills trials for the 2L class. Members of the 1L class seeking to volunteer for the trials as expert witnesses may have questions regarding the trial before they commit their time. The following briefly summarizes each of the Law Skills trial roles—compiled from various 2Ls—for those contemplating volunteering for a role in a trial. This may not apply to every section.
Trial Roles
Witness: As a witness, you will be required to give a deposition at trial. Neither witnesses nor expert witnesses are required to stay throughout the entire trial. During the trial, the witness may bring the deposition up to the stand and is not required to memorize it. There will likely be a brief cross-examination, which does not require a substantially long time commitment.
Expert Witness: Like a witness, the player often conveys the information in a deposition along with other supplemental information regarding the case such as safety regulations. An expert witness will spend more time with the 2Ls, assisting in possible cross-examination questions that may arise. The time commitment of an expert witness is generally greater than a witness's, and may require further preparation to answer questions within the boundaries of the deposition.
Juror: As a juror, there is a negligible amount of preparation required before the trial. The primary purpose of the juror is to deliberate and reach a verdict in the trial. From start to finish, the juror must be punctual upon arrival and remain throughout the entire trial.
Impact of Roles
It is important to emphasize that your ability to portray the role assigned will not directly alter the grades of the participating 2Ls. Regardless of whether you are a juror passing a verdict or a witness during cross-examination, performance should not cause any feelings of anxiety or stress for the volunteer. Being mindful that the trials are professional events and a good faith effort applies, the grading of the trial rests upon the 2Ls' personal performance and preparation.
Aspects to Consider
Unless otherwise instructed, prior trials have not required a strict dress code. It is important to note that many Virginia state judges, professors, and your professional peers hold trials in these courtrooms. A standard of business casual would be preferable if special circumstances do not interfere. The locations of the courtrooms are scattered across local areas and may require consideration towards obtaining directions prior to the trial. One of the most important responsibilities other than conducting ourselves in a professional manner during the trials is arriving on time.
If you are a 1L whose schedule permits volunteering in aiding our professional colleagues, please offer your availability through the 2L listserv, as many are still seeking roles to be filled. The trials are a great opportunity to further immerse ourselves into the Richmond Law student body and build connections with our professional peers. Next year we will get our turn to hold trials and the experience will undoubtedly be beneficial towards our own performance.
Thomas Liu is a first year student at Richmond Law. Submit comments and letters to the editor via jurispub@richmond.edu .
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