Jury Research
One of the specific applications of experimental psychology is in the study of the decision making processes of individual jurors and jury groups in the courtrooms of federal and state courts in the United States. Using quantitative and qualitative social science research techniques, Waites has helped to advance the use of reliable and useful testing techniques in accurately determining the most likely perceptions of jurors to further knowledge of jury decision making in specific litigation matters while at the same time improving the quality of courtroom presentations by trial advocates for the benefit of juries and trial courts. See also American Psychological Association - Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing
The product of Waites' work in jury research and that of other specially trained psychologists is used today in two ways. First, academic institutions, professional organizations, and private business organizations include the products of this work in the education and training of trial attorneys, corporate counsel who manage litigation, risk managers, insurance professionals, professional expert witnesses, jury consultants (sometimes referred to as trial consultants), and others whose work takes them to the courtroom. Second, jury research study methods and extensive courtroom experience are often used by trial attorneys, corporate counsel, and litigants in gaining an understanding of how likely jurors will perceive the evidence, witnesses, and trial attorneys in particular upcoming trials and provide a basis for making creative and persuasive presentations in the courtroom.
Waites' work in this highly specialized field is notable for many reasons. His approach to the design and implementation of jury research techniques and development of persuasive courtroom presentations is governed by his achievements as an experienced trial attorney and an experienced doctoral level social scientist. While Waites is credited in private practice for the development of many successful courtroom arguments, he is also highly regarded by many academic institutions, professional societies, and attorney professional organizations for his many contributions of time, resources, and assistance in the development of professional people in many fields who appear or practice in the courtroom.
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