In the Courtroom
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Chris Hurley argues before the Illinois Supreme Court
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At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C., most cases don’t have to go to trial, but as trial lawyers we’re ready when they do.
“Trial preparation starts at our first meeting with each of our clients and continues until the case is resolved.”
There is no substitute for preparation
At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C., we prepare every case as if it is going to trial. Statistically most cases settle, but our trial preparation approach ensures that we obtain the highest settlements for our clients. Defendants and their insurance companies pay the best settlements to lawyers that have demonstrated a willingness to do the hard work necessary to prepare a case for trial and try it.
When a case goes to trial there is no substitute for preparation. Trial preparation starts at our first meeting with each of our clients and continues until the case is resolved. We bring years of experience, knowledge, and success to every case but we know that is often not enough. That’s why we constantly push ourselves to bring the latest and best technology, research, and modes of presentation into every courtroom we enter.
Our Work Starts with Research
We get better results because we are the most prepared. Our research methods include:
- Hiring professional investigators to track down the facts of your case and identify witnesses, records and defendants.
- Gathering relevant medical records, police reports, etc.
- Researching both statutory and case law.
- Looking for similar cases.
- Talking to experts who can evaluate the facts. We have worked with experts in everything from neurosurgery to metallurgy.
- Researching scientific and medical literature.
- Carefully considering the relevant Statutes of Limitations.
Next Steps in Preparing for Trial
After the research phase, we begin intensely preparing for trial. Our steps in preparation include:
- Exploring settlement options whenever possible.
- Filing a preliminary complaint against all defendants.
- Conducting formal discovery against all defendants.
- Taking depositions, or formal statements made under oath, from witnesses and experts.
- Arguing preliminary motions in court.
- Working extensively with our clients preparing for trial.
Finally we go into the courtroom, where technology and great visuals are the key to effectively presenting your case to a jury.
