ALTHOUGH THIS ARTICLE APPLIES TO U.S. REMEDIAL LAW, ITS ESSENCE IS RELEVANT TO FILIPINO TRIAL LAWYERS.
"X XX.
The following should be included in the preparation of your trial notebook:
- Assemble evidence and create a list to keep track of exhibits. Give numbers (if you represent the plaintiff) and letters (if you represent the defendant) to the evidence you will offer as exhibits or use as demonstrative evidence at trial. Add a description, the witness who will introduce it, and leave columns to check off whether the evidence is either admitted or offered but not admitted.
- Complete your trial outline. List every issue you need to prove or disprove at trial. Next to each issue write:
- the numbers or letters of relevant physical evidence;
- the names of relevant witnesses;
- any relevant cases or statutes..
- Make a list of witnesses in order of anticipated appearance. Include a column to check off whether a subpoena has issued and has been served.
- Prepare a trial brief (if the judge accepts trial briefs) showing your summary of the law and the facts of the case.
- Pro: This is helpful to alert the court to important issues and areas the judge may want to research.
- Con: it also reveals your approach to the other side, alerting them to possible proof or evidentiary problems.
- Prepare a separate file for each witness (plaintiff and defense) listing the facts to which you want them to testify (either on direct or cross-examination).
- Include any pretrial orders that may regulate the trial’s course and prepare written objections with points and authorities to anticipated evidence issues.
- Prepare sample questions for jury voir dire.
- Prepare witness lists to present to the judge for use during voir dire. In civil cases, be sure you also prepare a brief factual statement of the case for the judge to use during voir dire.
- Write an outline of your opening statement and closing argument(s).
- Prepare sample verdict forms.
- Arrange to have all charts and other demonstrative evidence prepared. X X X."
