Constance Miller Litigation Communication Services

Witness Prep Case Study
In preparation for deposition in an employment case, our plaintiff showed extreme apprehension in anticipation of sitting across the table from his ex-supervisor, the very man who had manipulated the plaintiff's workmates and fired him so abruptly and rudely, the man our witness referred to as "the essence of evil - the Devil himself." The witness trembled and blanched at the thought of having to be in the same room with him, actually felt mortally imperiled.

Over the course of several hours we worked to help this plaintiff understand that the issue at stake was larger than himself. Naturally we also assured him that his attorney would defend him, would be the "warrior" during the deposition. We were able to convince him that if he could face this "evil" man and be calm he would be helping not only his own case, but the work situations of all those who suffered at this supervisor's hands. He came to realize through the preparation work that by learning how to discipline his emotions through the deposition he could then face any challenge that life brought him because of the strength of character that this encounter at deposition would require of him.

The change in his whole demeanor was remarkable, moving from emotional fragility and frowning at the beginning to a strong posture and clear, thoughtful and forthright responses to opposing counsel's questioning at deposition, where he managed to stay calm. He effectively described the chain of events that led to the lawsuit and the case settled well for our plaintiff.

Linda Thomas, Executive Director, Gordon Thomas Honeywell: One-on-One Coaching and Training for associates
"You are a great resource for our firm."

Gary Williams: Witness Preparation
"Connie Miller is a key ingredient in each of my important trials. I learned first hand what she can do when I tried the same case twice -- once alone, and once with Connie's help. The improvement with Connie was stunning. My witnesses were far, far better when Connie helped prepare them for trial. They learned to relax, focus, and overcome stage fright. They knew they were learning and could see the value of Connie's input; this motivated them to pay attention, work hard, and improve.... Every trial lawyer knows the frustration of asking an important question on direct, only to have the witness fail to give the expected answer...Connie analyzes the learning and communication style of lawyer and witness, and then helps them understand each other. It works.

Trial lawyers often try to be all things in all cases. We think we understand everything about every aspect of the science and psychology involved in a case, simply because we must. It doesn't have to be so difficult. With input from a real professional, even the finest trial lawyer can try a much better case. I heartily recommend Connie Miller."

Theodore Spearman: Focus Group Facilitation, Witness Preparation, Communication Strategy, Voir Dire Preparation
"Connie is an extraordinary teacher and communicator. She also has a keen capacity to find the quick of matters, coupled with the ability to keep it simple. I've always come away from sessions with Connie with priceless insights, which have benefited my clients and myself. Every case and litigator deserves her input."

EEOC In-house Public Speaking Training Programs
for attorneys, judges, managers and investigators

"I learned a lot about my own speaking style, the importance of visual aids, being able to connect with your audience, how to effectively practice for a speech."

"I want to express my appreciation for your expert guidance. It has been an enjoyable and valuable learning experience."

Lori Irwin, Attorney, Washington State CASA Program: co-trainer, training program
"Wow! What a great training! . . . I enjoyed and appreciated working with you. All your expertise was certainly valuable to me personally. I anticipate utilizing your tips through out my work with CASAs."

© 2003-2005 Constance Miller All rights reserved.

<< Home/Public Speaking | Services | Methods | About | Tips | Current Schedule | Testimonials | Resources | Subscribe