When the Plaintiff in a Personal Injury Lawsuit is a Child

This program delves into the unique challenges and strategies of representing child plaintiffs in personal injury cases. Participants will explore critical topics such as effective communication with the child and their guardians, preparing for depositions, jury selection, and settlement processes.

The course emphasizes ethical considerations, the nuances of child witness testimony, and the legal frameworks specific to minor plaintiffs. Through a blend of lectures, case studies, and practical exercises, attendees will gain the skills to navigate the complexities of representing young clients in legal settings.

This course is designed for legal professionals at any level in any practice, notably those involved in personal injury litigation. It provides essential knowledge and practical tools to effectively represent child plaintiffs.

Learning Objectives:

• Explain the legal rights and protections afforded to child plaintiffs in personal injury lawsuits
• Demonstrate effective communication strategies for engaging with child clients and their parents, ensuring the child’s agency is respected throughout the process
• Assess the competencies of child witnesses and prepare them for depositions, including how to handle questions and manage anxiety
• Identify critical factors in jury selection that influence perceptions of child witnesses and effectively assess potential jurors' biases regarding minors
• Outline the steps in negotiating settlements for child plaintiffs, including preparing Infant Compromise Orders and understanding the implications for guardians
• Recognize and address ethical dilemmas when representing child clients, including the balance of parental control and child autonomy
• Prepare for and manage the dynamics of the courtroom, especially during compromise hearings and testimony, ensuring the child’s voice is heard
• Utilize techniques to foster jury empathy for child plaintiffs while mitigating the risk of negative perceptions that could arise during trial

Production Date: 10/22/2024 | Closed captioning (CC) available