The Consequences of Bias in Litigation

Bias in litigation is a prevalent problem. Bias exists in all people. The ability to recognize your biases and the biases of your opponent can save or lose your case. Black’s Law Dictionary Tenth Edition identifies 6 types of bias in the courtroom. Not on the list of biases is “Expert Witness Bias.” As a legal professional a responsibility is to recognize whether your expert witness is succumbing to unconscious biases that will be exposed in deposition or trial. We all have biases, learn to overcome yours and increase the chances for a positive outcome in your case. This presentation introduces the six forms of courtroom biases plus expert witness bias. You learn how to recognize these biases in yourself, your expert witness, and the opposition. After this seminar you will: -Effectively recognize and reduce your biases Know how to counter the biases of the opposition -Determine whether your forensic examiner’s report is biased -Recognize the effects of bias on forensic examiners’ opinions -Make implicit biases work in your favor -Learn how biases impact the jury’s perspective