How to Prepare Trial Binders
- 1). Collect all evidence that will be included in the binder. Prepare to assemble all the evidence that will be presented at the trial and organize all exhibits. As you are organizing, assign numbers and letters to evidence. You may also want to place a note on each piece of evidence that includes the name of the witness the evidence relates to.
- 2
The trial binder will expand as the case advances toward the trial date so some sections may not be able to be included until right before the trial.Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
Organize all trial information. When collecting trial info, make sure you include a list of all witnesses that will appear before the jury. List the witnesses by the order of anticipated appearance and include the witnesses' contact information. Also create a summary of all pre-trial motions, rulings and any case law that may be needed. You will also want to include an outline of your direct and cross examinations as well as your opening statement and closing argument. - 3). Prepare a trial brief that will be included in the binder. Keep in mind that a trial brief can alert the court of the important issues of the case but it may also reveal your approach to the opposing side; which may alert them of possible issues with proof or evidence.
- 4). Transfer all prepared information to the binder. The binder should be three-ringed and have enough spine width to accommodate all the materials. If you absolutely have to, you can create a two volume binder, but one is best. All the materials in the binder should be separated by dividers for each category of included materials. You may need sub-dividers to separate materials within a category.
- 5). Make copies of the complete binder. Make at least two copies of the entire trial binder. One copy will come to court with you and the other can remain in the office.
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