How to Successfully Litigate During a Covid-19
The COVID-19 global pandemic has affected virtually every industry and workplace. Even those who already worked remotely have had to make changes. For the legal field, these changes include virtual litigation. Online courtrooms have become the norm for many legal experts and their clients. How does litigating online change how you present a case? Kimberlee Gee Legal has come up with some tips for how to litigate during a pandemic.
Be Flexible and Ready to Adapt
The first and, perhaps, most important tip is to be open to change. Litigating online is going to be different than litigating in the courtroom. You need to be prepared to adapt to new ways of doing things. It may not be easy at first, and you may find yourself stumbling or working more slowly than you typically do. However, as with any change, once you get used to it, you will be able to easily incorporate it into your normal routine. Also remember that the main thing that is changing is the delivery method. The law is still the law, and your talents as a litigator have not changed. The only difference is that now you are communicating virtually using technology instead of being together in person.
Check with Courtrooms and Judges for Changes
In addition to changes you have to make at your firm, judges may have specific rules for their courtrooms or courthouses may have certain apps or virtual tools they prefer lawyers use. This information is likely posted on the district’s website, and you can always contact the courthouse to ask. Knowing about these rules and preferences beforehand will help the trial move along at a normal pace. You especially want to make note of how judges want evidence presented. Some may want it uploaded to a specific app, while others might want you to email it to the judge directly. If secure evidence such as a firearm is involved, find out how the law enforcement officer in charge of presenting it will do so.
Familiarize Yourself with Technology
Take time to practice using programs such as Zoom for teleconferencing and get used to appearing on camera and speaking naturally into the microphone. You may also want to learn how to share your computer screen, upload images to specific apps, and practice with any other technology you may need. If you have a technology breakdown in the middle of presenting your case, it can make you lose momentum, which could affect your case.
Make Use of Waiting Time
If you do find yourself waiting for a judge to join your online session, use that time like you would use any downtime: review the case, talk to your client, or even speak with opposing counsel if they are on the call. However, do remember that you are on an online call, and those can be recorded even when you are waiting for someone to join. Some districts do specifically prohibit recordings, but some do not. Don’t talk about anything sensitive or confidential.
How to Litigate During a Pandemic
Litigating virtually will require some changes and some getting used to, but in the end, you will still be able to present your case and the facts.
Even during this crazy pandemic, you will still need to keep lawyering. For tips for how to litigate during a pandemic or if you do need legal research, writing, and editing in connection with any of your cases, Kimberlee Gee Legal is here to help. Contact us today to discuss what we can do for you. 1-800-366-0573.