Trial Binders, Trial Preparation, and More...

This course is also available as part of the 2023 Paralegal Cruise Course Bundle.

Experienced trial paralegal Linda McGrath-Cruz provides a comprehensive course on trial binders, trial preparation, and more. In this course, we’ll discuss the following:

Why it's important to have a paralegal on the trial team.

How many cases go to trial and how paralegals learn about trial preparation.

The purpose and importance of the trial binder.

The various formats you may want to consider for your trial binder and the pros and cons of each.

A step-by-step explanation of exactly what should be included in each section for each part of the trial (and what should be left out) and the critical information needed to transform a so-so trial binder into a case-changing gold mine of information.

We'll go into detail about witness information necessary, whether it's contained within the trial binder or in separate witness binders.

We'll also talk about court rules and judges rules and preferences, and things to keep in mind while preparing for trial.

Finally, we’ll discuss what you should and should NOT include in your paralegal toolbox, tips and tricks for out of town trials and so much more...

You will walk away with the confidence and skills needed to prepare a trial binder that your trial team will be impressed with, even if you’ve NEVER made one before!

You'll also feel more confident about trial preparation in general, especially if you are attending with your team.

Additionally, we will talk about how you can utilize these skills for mediations, arbitrations, depositions, and more...

As part of this program, you will also receive copies of my trial preparation tools including trial binder index - simple and expanded versions, general and master trial preparation checklists, trial toolkit contents list, exhibit log, over forty potential jury questions, jury summary forms and seating charts, witnesses binder index, witness checklist, information sheet and subpoena letter and lots more.

You will receive all of these valuable materials in Word format so you can get a jump-start and wow your trial team!

BONUS - You'll receive a list of trial-related sample time/billing entries to make sure you are capturing all of your billable hours during the chaos of trial prep!

This class features computer-generated closed captioning.

Meet your Speaker

Linda McGrath-Cruz

Linda McGrath-Cruz brings a wealth of hands-on experience to her seminars, accumulated since 1997, from the dynamic world of civil litigation. Specializing in areas such as products/premises liability, bodily injury, wrongful death, and medical malpractice defense, Linda's expertise is not just theoretical but deeply rooted in real-world practice. As a testament to her dedication and skill, she has earned the designation of NALA Advanced Certified Paralegal in key areas including discovery, eDiscovery, trial practice, social security, and entity medical liability, alongside her recognition as a Florida Registered Paralegal.

Linda's academic journey underscores her commitment to the paralegal profession, holding two paralegal certificates, a Bachelor's in Paralegal Studies from Barry University, and a Master's in Paralegal Studies from National Juris University. Linda also holds degrees in medical assisting and secondary education. Her educational background, paired with her extensive experience, positions her as an instructor with a deep understanding of the field's nuances and complexities.

She is the proud founder and operator of Perfectly Paralegal, a vibrant community that offers resources, support, continuing education, and much more for paralegals across all levels of experience and education. This initiative highlights Linda's commitment to nurturing the paralegal community, making her not just a mentor but a relatable ally who understands the challenges and triumphs of the profession.

In Linda's classes, you're not just learning theory; you're gaining practical insights from someone who has lived it. Her approachable nature and dedication to sharing her wealth of knowledge ensure that every participant leaves with valuable, actionable information. Join her to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, and empower yourself with the tools for success in the dynamic world of paralegal work.

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Continuing Legal Education Credit (CLE)

NALA CP or ACP: This course is approved by NALA as part of the 2023 Paralegals Navigating Perilous Waters Cruise Event, sponsored by Perfectly Paralegal Consulting, Inc. This individual course is approved for 1.5 CLE, including 0 ethics and 0 non-substantive.

Florida Bar FRP: As approved by NALA, this seminar meets the requirements under Rule 20-6.1 of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar for continuing legal education credit required to maintain the FRP credential.

NFPA RP® or CRP™: NFPA automatically accepts substantive CLE hours which bears the accreditation of NALA on the certificate of attendance.

State Bar of Texas – Paralegal Division – The Division will accept substantive law CLE approved by the National Association of Legal Assistants for credit towards the Paralegal Division mandatory membership renewal CLE requirement.

NALS: This course is approved by NALS as part of the 2023 Paralegals Navigating Perilous Waters Cruise Event, sponsored by Perfectly Paralegal Consulting, Inc. This individual course is approved for 1.5 CLE, including 0 ethics.

North Carolina: The North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification has approved this individual class for 1.5 general hours. North Carolina provides an annual approval which expires April 27, 2024 unless renewed. Renewal Pending for 2024-2025.

South Carolina: Pending.