Combating Plaintiff Reptilian Tactics in Complex Litigation: Discovery, Voir Dire, Direct and Cross-Examination
Recording of a 90-minute CLE video webinar with Q&A
This CLE course will guide litigators on combating the trial strategy commonly known as the "reptile theory." The panel will educate counsel about identifying and responding to "reptile" tactics at every stage of a matter, from discovery through closing argument.
Outline
- Reptilian tactics in litigation: how to spot them
- Defense strategies: from discovery through closing argument
Benefits
The panel will review these and other key issues:
- What is the underlying basis for "reptilian" theory trial tactics?
- How are plaintiffs' attorneys leveraging reptile tactics to influence jurors?
- How can defense attorneys counter plaintiffs' use of reptilian tactics?
Faculty
Paul F. Devine
Attorney
Boggs Avellino Lach & Boggs
Mr. Devine has thirty years’ experience in various types of litigation, in a career that has focused on insurance... | Read More
Mr. Devine has thirty years’ experience in various types of litigation, in a career that has focused on insurance defense, asbestos, automotive warranty, personal injury, contract, labor, and real estate claims; counseling and advising national real estate companies regarding regulatory issues affecting real estate brokers and agents; and drafting contracts, deeds, wills and trusts. He has appeared in Missouri, Illinois, and the US District Courts in Eastern Missouri, Western Missouri, and Southern Illinois, as well as the Court of Appeals and the Supreme Court of the State of Missouri.
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Matthew D. Gurbach
Partner
Bricker Graydon
Mr. Gurbach is a diversified trial attorney that represents individuals and corporations in complex business litigation... | Read More
Mr. Gurbach is a diversified trial attorney that represents individuals and corporations in complex business litigation and product liability disputes across a variety of industries. He has extensive experience litigating high-stakes matters for both plaintiffs and defendants involving alleged trade secret misappropriation, intellectual property disputes, business torts, covenants not to compete, as well as claims related to breaches of contract, transportation and logistics, and product liability. Mr. Gurbach's product liability cases have involved a wide variety of products including, industrial machinery, recreational products, consumer products, and toxic torts.
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Kathryn S. (Kate) Whitlock
Attorney
McAngus Goudelock & Courie
Ms. Whitlock has spent her entire career defending and counseling individuals and insurance companies in professional... | Read More
Ms. Whitlock has spent her entire career defending and counseling individuals and insurance companies in professional liability, products liability and premises liability matters. She represents those in the legal, insurance, real estate and education fields. Ms. Whitlock is highly-skilled in the courtroom and alternative dispute forum; she has tried over 100 cases to jury verdict, bench decision and final arbitrator award in state and federal courts. She has been recognized in her practice by The Best Lawyers in America© and Georgia Super Lawyers, and was named among America’s Top Lawyers by The American Law Society in 2018.
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