Given the continued rise of record-breaking verdicts, defense counsel need to consider fresh approaches to counteract factors influencing juror attitudes. According to Ken Broda-Bahm at Persuasion Strategies, the key to addressing these challenges includes establishing a formula for rebuilding credibility from the very start of opening statements. These strategies become crucial as recent high-profile cases have resulted in substantial awards against major companies. For instance, civil juries have recently awarded $80 million against Zurich American Insurance Co., over $90 million against The Boeing Co., $107 million against AstraZeneca PLC, and $242 million against Microsoft Corp.
For a detailed exploration of the steps to repair defense credibility during opening statements, visit the full article on Law360.