Scientific evidence can make or break a case, and experts can help juries understand what it all means. But first, lawyers need to persuade the judicial gatekeepers that an expert’s testimony is relevant and reliable. Here is help on meeting the tough admissibility standards for evidence.
William C. Smith
For the last two decades, juries have been losing their power-and respect. Arbitrators decide cases once heard by juries; legislators cap awards and limit the kinds of cases that can get to court; and judges are more likely to decide the merits of cases and evidence. Now the Supreme Court is showing signs it dislikes the trend.
Mark Curriden
The recent demonstrations in Seattle and Washington, D.C., may have evoked memories of Vietnam protests, but this time the beefs were over arcane trade issues. These activists are focusing on the World Trade Organization and the way it thwarts environmental and human-rights reforms.
John Gibeaut
Online legal research startups are trying to capture market terrain from mighty West and Lexis. Two pending lawsuits may determine whether the challengers can gain ground. The first story in this package explores the copyright and antitrust issues raised in the suits. The second looks at the new online companies and their services.
Debra Baker
Lately, sports stars like linebacker Ray Lews (near right) have been in the news for arrests instead of athletic achievements. Many team owners say they would like to crack down on these players, but labor laws and contracts make discipline difficult The NFL, though, is taking the lead in efforts to tackle these problems.
Tennessee anthropologist William M. Bass III (right) helps catch killers through the study of decomposing bodies. At his research facility near Knoxville, known as the Body Farm, as many as 40 bodies at a time lie decomposing. The research helps experts determine murder victims’ time of death.
When Sandra Day O’Connor sought her first law job/she could only find work as a legal secretary. Women have come a long way since then. They now represent half of incoming law students and almost a third of all lawyers. Our report explores gains made and problems that remain
The author of our popular “Litigation” column explains how to win over jurors in opening and closing statements. Find out why you shouldn’t talk like a lawyer, how you can deal with implausible facts, and more.
James W. McElhaney
