The Power of Your Own Voice in Court
When you’ve been injured and your case goes to trial, every detail matters—especially how you communicate in front of a jury. According to CourtLaw founder Karim Arzadi, one of the biggest mistakes clients make is relying too heavily on translators, especially when juries are already biased against immigrants.
Injury cases can be incredibly complex, often requiring detailed evidence and testimony. In many situations, the narrative presented in court hinges on the ability of the injured party to articulate their experience. To illustrate, consider how effective storytelling can resonate with jurors. Sharing personal anecdotes, such as how the injury affected daily activities, can create a stronger emotional connection with the jury.
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“We have people who’ve been here for 30 years and are very comfortable in their native language. That’s the kiss of death in a jury pool.”
Why Juries React This Way
Moreover, jurors may have preconceived notions based on societal stereotypes that can cloud their judgment. For instance, they might think that an immigrant lacks credibility simply because they are not fluent in English. This creates an uphill battle for injured parties who must not only prove their case but also combat these biases. It’s essential for your attorney to prepare you for this reality, helping you find ways to connect with the jurors despite language barriers.
It may be uncomfortable to hear, but juries today often hold unfair assumptions about immigrants. Even when you’re the victim, jurors may question your credibility if you don’t speak for yourself—no matter how valid your claims are.
“Juries today are very antagonistic against immigrants.”
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This is why Karim urges clients—even those who struggle with English—to make the effort to speak during trial. Your voice, your effort, and your vulnerability can change everything.
The Case That Proved It
Karim once represented a client who spoke no English. Despite the challenge, he insisted the client speak in court. The jury laughed at him, but listened. That same jury awarded $1.2 million—on a chiropractic case.
“Because he tried.”
Had the client used a translator, Karim believes the case would have struggled to prove permanency of injury—a key element in securing compensation.
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Additionally, practicing your testimony before trial can significantly enhance your confidence. Role-playing with your attorney can help you refine your message and become more comfortable speaking in front of others. This preparation can also allow you to focus on key points, ensuring that the jury understands your narrative clearly. For example, practicing how to explain medical treatments you have undergone or discussing the emotional toll of your injury can be impactful.
Furthermore, it’s beneficial to engage with the jury through eye contact and body language. Non-verbal communication can enhance the sincerity of your statements. Jurors often respond well to individuals who appear genuine and approachable. Therefore, being aware of your posture, maintaining eye contact, and using open gestures can help reinforce your message. Practicing these techniques can be just as crucial as rehearsing your words.
As you prepare to present your case, remember that the jury is looking for someone they can empathize with. Your story needs to resonate on a personal level. Consider how your injury has changed your life—what activities you can no longer do, how your relationships have been affected, and the overall impact on your quality of life. These aspects can profoundly influence a jury’s decision, making them more likely to award compensation that reflects your suffering.
Finally, you must understand the importance of a well-crafted narrative. Your attorney should work closely with you to develop a compelling storyline that encapsulates your journey. This narrative should not only highlight the facts of the case but should also reflect your emotional journey. Crafting this narrative takes time and effort, but it is essential for engaging the jury fully. A powerful story can leave a lasting impression, making jurors more inclined to side with you in their deliberations.
Contact your local CourtLaw NJ Law Firm to help you with your injury case. Tell them what happened. or call 21-CourtLaw
What This Means for You
If you’re pursuing an injury claim and English isn’t your first language, the takeaway is simple: try. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to show the jury that you’re real, relatable, and telling your truth.
And if you need a team that understands how juries work and how to position your story for maximum impact, CourtLaw is here for you. Tell us what happened.
Did you or a loved one sustain serious injuries due to an accident in New Jersey? Don’t let the medical bills pile up while you wait for the negligent party or their insurance company to do the right thing.
Right now, you need an aggressive personal injury attorney on your side, fighting to get you the compensation you need, want, and deserve. The skilled injury attorneys at CourtLaw NJ Personal Injury Lawyers represent clients injured in accidents in Perth Amboy, Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, East Orange, and throughout New Jersey. Call 732-442-5900 or fill out our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case. We have an office conveniently located at 163 Market Street, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 as well as offices in Jersey City, New Brunswick, Roselle, and East Orange.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
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