Focus Groups

FAI plans, facilitates and analyzes the results of Focus Groups to help clients thoroughly assess their cases.

Focus Groups are a type of qualitative research. Groups can range from small (seven to 12 respondents) to large (24 to 60 respondents).

Small groups are typically conducted as concept focus groups, which FAI’s Martin Q. Peterson pioneered with attorneys David Wenner and Greg Cusimano. Concept groups are informal discussion groups and emphasize the questions of participants over presentations by attorneys.

Larger groups are typically conducted as structured focus groups, which typically involve presentations on behalf of the plaintiff and defendant followed by participant deliberations. They often incorporate exhibits and/or videotaped testimony.

Both are invaluable methods of research.

We recommend a professional recruit (which we design and oversee) in order to get the appropriate mix of juror-representative participants.

Focus groups provide compelling case themes, case strengths and weaknesses, insights for jury selection and, depending on structure, witness evaluations.

Mock Trials

FAI coordinates mock trials with clients, as well as facilitates and reports on the results.

Mock Trials are a type of qualitative research and can range from groups of 18 up to about 60 mock jurors.

They typically involve a formal adversarial process with opening statements for both sides, examinations and cross-examinations of witnesses and closing arguments for both sides, along with deliberations by mock jurors.

Again, we recommend a professional recruit (which we design and oversee) in order to get the appropriate mix of juror-representative participants.

Surveys & Online Focus Groups

FAI plans, oversees and reports on the results of Surveys and Online Focus Groups to provide clients with statistically valid data. Surveys are particularly useful for change of venue motions and jury selection strategy. Online Focus Groups can also be useful in developing themes and trial strategy.