Why I Always Run a Focus Group Before Trial
Focus group is one of the most powerful tools you can use to prepare for trial.
Why Focus Groups Matter
Before you walk into a courtroom, you need to know what a jury might think about your case.
A focus group gives you that insight. Without it, you’re guessing.
Focus groups allow you to test:
- What facts make jurors skeptical
- Which issues raise red flags
- How your client’s story will really be received
How to Run a Focus Group
It’s easier than ever today. You can:
- Find participants on Craigslist or job boards
- Hire a company to put a group together
- Even run them online through Zoom
But here’s a critical rule:
Don’t tell participants it’s your case.
If you do, they’ll try to tell you what you want to hear — not what they truly think.
If that feels tricky, trade off with another attorney or have a colleague run it for you.
The Issues You Need to Test
Focus groups are especially important for the problem areas in your case. For example:
- Did your client delay medical treatment?
- Were there long gaps in care?
- Did your client wait a year before surgery?
Jurors will notice these issues — and you need to know how they’ll react.
Why This Matters for Voir Dire
You only get limited time in voir dire.
If you’ve run a focus group, you’ll know exactly which issues to focus on. That makes your questions sharper and your time much more effective.
Final Takeaway
Don’t go to trial blind. Run a focus group. Learn what real people think. Narrow your issues.
It can make all the difference between being unprepared — and walking into court with confidence.
For more videos, check out the Hensley Law Firm YouTube channel.