Ask the Lawyer: How do you stomach trials?

Q: We went through a trial for a week (I am one of the clients), and are awaiting a decision. It was a court trial but still a genuine roller coaster. Our attorney held his head high, but I know at times he was really upset at things happening. How do lawyers try cases and stay healthy?

-B.G., Pasadena

A: Some lawyers thrive on trials, look forward to them, and feel as if they are in their own living room. Not all trials go well, however, and invariably there are ups and downs. I have had a trial during which we thought  we were doing poorly, braced for a loss, but won. Trial can be very nerve wracking, and there are circumstances that arise that are hard to predict.  Handling trials is not for the feint of heart. It can be 24/7 while in trial. The satisfaction is in being well prepared, doing your utmost to prevail on the merits, and not lose your balance in the process.

Q: We have a “stickler” for our judge. He has rules that do not seem to apply in other courtrooms. Aren’t there basic, uniform rules on how things are done?

-A.L., Torrance

A: Each judge can set his or her own rules, within reason. It is important to know the general rules with regard to time frames, the kind of paperwork that is acceptable, and deadlines for various steps in a case, but also necessary to check to see if any particular judge has specific requirements with regard to his or her courtroom. Some judges do have rules to be complied with that are in addition to, or may differ to a degree from, the basics.

Q: Is it best to refer to “Your Honor” or to say “Judge” instead?

A: Either can work, but more typically I have found counsel and parties use the phrase “Your Honor”.

Ron Sokol is a Manhattan Beach attorney with more than 35 years of experience. His column presents a summary of the law and should not be construed as legal advice. Email him at RonSEsq@aol.com.