Inside the War Room: Trial Preparation Strategies Every In-House Counsel Should Know

When litigation heads toward trial, in-house counsel are more than observers—they’re the strategic anchors guiding outside counsel, managing risk, and aligning trial decisions with business realities. Every element of trial prep, from case themes and witness coordination to media messaging and ethics, carries enterprise-level implications. Understanding how to lead effectively from the inside is what separates reactive litigation management from proactive trial strategy.

Join us in person on Wednesday, November 5 at 5:30 PM ET as Matthew Duncan and David M. Scott, of BMD, and Shari Belitz, CEO of Shari Belitz Communications, LLC, take you inside the war room to explore the real-world mechanics of trial preparation. Through practical examples and candid insights, they’ll unpack how in-house counsel can shape narrative development, strengthen collaboration with outside trial teams, and ensure the company’s story is both credible and compelling.

Key Takeaways:

• How in-house counsel can shape case themes, messaging, and trial strategy from the start
• Best practices for managing outside counsel collaboration and trial team alignment
• Using voir dire and mock juries to anticipate risks and refine strategy
• Managing corporate reputation and media relations during trial
• Ethical and procedural considerations unique to in-house legal leadership

Who Should Attend:

This in-person session is designed for in-house counsel and legal department leaders who oversee litigation, coordinate with outside counsel, or advise senior management on trial-related matters.

There is NO COST to attend this program! 

This program is FREE thanks to our gracious sponsor, Brennan, Manna & Diamond. Please note, this event is only open to in-house attorneys.