What should I look for in a trial lawyer as an indication of his ability to win trials?
“Not Guilty” verdicts. Intelligence and good grades in law school are certainly one indicator of potential success as a trial lawyer: Attorney Carl Haggard was an Honors cum laude graduate from law school. The ability to think on one’s feet and argue persuasively is important as well: Carl Haggard won many awards in college and law school for his outstanding debate skills. However, unless a lawyer actually wins trials (on a regular basis), he either doesn’t have what it takes, or he’s learning on you. [Back to top] Why is actual trial experience important? Few trial skills are taught in law school. Many aspects of trying a case are only learned through experience, such as how to successfully parry prosecutorial blows which come out of left field in the middle of trial, or which juror is right for a particular case and which juror is wrong and should therefore be excluded. [Back to top] Will Mr. Haggard decide whether I should go to trial in my case or plea bargain? No. Mr. Haggard will
