This session, as every has been exemplary in shortening the learning curve and evening the playing field in a very challenging arena. Right away I did a thorough re-write of my agreement document and built in many of the items from 136-140. I can’t think of what does more for peace of mind than signaling quality case handling, from the very beginning.
“Retaining counsel said based primarily on my report, all 4 cases were settled… Retaining counsel is highly pleased. Your experience and critique of my report was pivotal to this outcome. Thanks again.”
I’m very pleased I was able to attend. Although I’m a rookie in the expert witness world, I’m sure your training has given me a head start that many of my colleagues never had. Thanks and I look forward to attending another seminar in the future.
“I attended your recent advanced training in Florida. I testified yesterday in court, the first such testimony since the training. It was a huge success as I felt for the first time, completely comfortable with my opinion, my report and my testimony. I have been doing expert witness work for quite some time, but have only started testifying more in recent years. I have observed others, completed various trainings and as you know there is a steep learning curve in this area, so have learned from every experience—good and especially, bad. Your class though was the “tipping point” in terms of me finally understanding and being able to implement testifying skills, starting with a completely reasoned opinion and ending with educating the court, remaining calm and speaking clearly and directly. I especially learned from watching all the witnesses get grilled at your training—seeing what experts look like when they can’t give a straight answer or are defensive really was instructive and eye opening. There were many take aways from the class but I especially liked Jim’s quote from The Art of War—he who is strong everywhere, is strong nowhere. I was able to give where I needed to and stand firm, where I wouldn’t. The other side should send their expert to your training…”
“I attended the SEAK Advanced Testifying Skills course in 2006. This was an extremely beneficial program. It provided clarity. Wording in my reports improved due to some suggestions made. Additionally, when I testify, at times a “light bulb” goes on in my head, alerting me to “go for it”–assert myself. For example, when I responded to a question–using wording I learned at the seminar–an opposing counsel actually looked startled, stepped back and eased up on cross-examining me. (He also asked for my business card following the trial.) Additionally, at your seminar, I met other experts who shared their experiences. This, also, was very rewarding. Thank you for offering such a worthwhile seminar. I am considering taking it again to further strengthen my knowledge and performance.”
“I look forward to seeing you at your fall meeting. Thank you once more.”
“I am working on a Federal case and wanted to thank you and all the folks @SEAK for the knowledge gained in your course. I am working w/ several Ass’t US attorneys (AUSAs) that I have worked with in the past and they have noticed the difference. I am scheduled to be deposed tomorrow at the AUSAs’ office – not mine, I told them! They held a mock “grilling” on Friday and the conclusion was, “We beat you severely about the ‘head and face’, much worse than the plaintiff’s attorney will and you handled it just fine!” As the questions came, I continually remembered the principles SEAK taught – hear the whole question, make sure you understand it, answer only that question, answer only what you’re an expert in, etc. We’ll see how I do tom’w during the real thing. So I thought it would only be right to thank your group for the lessons learned. (Yes, you may use this in a “promo’).”
I just wanted to thank you and Nadine for a very enlightening weekend. I learned a lot
“Anyway, thanks to you and Jim. We as a society complain too often when things don’t work and are too quiet when they do so I wanted to let you know.”
“I have not done any other advertising or marketing other than the [SEAK] directory. Just off the SEAK directory, I have been retained in Ohio, Idaho and West Virginia. Just got a call last week on a case in Kansas City, MO and waiting for attorney to send me synopsis of case – found my name in the directory. So, from my perspective, and in terms of the Gen X’ers – you guys Rock!”