Katherine A. Helm Featured in Panel Discussion on Strategies for Successful Virtual Courtroom Proceedings

Dechert IP and litigation partner Katherine A. (Kassie) Helm, Ph.D. was one of four panelists who participated in a virtual panel discussion held last week titled: Strategies for Successful Virtual Courtroom Proceedings. The discussion, hosted by the Washington Area Women Trial Attorneys and co-sponsored by the Civil Jury Project and Latham & Watkins, also featured U.S. District Judge Paul Grimm of the District of Maryland; Judge Emily Miskel of the 470th District Court in Collin County, Texas; and Deputy Solicitor General Michelle Kallen of the Office of Attorney General of Virginia. Introductory remarks were made by Judge Mark Drummond (Circuit Court Judge, 8th Judicial Circuit of Illinois (Retired); Judicial Director, Civil Jury Project). 

Some tips shared by the panelists included the importance of finding a quiet space with a good internet connection; using a headset with a good microphone (a gaming headset is ok if it does the job); appropriate attire; and no snacking during proceedings. When discussing ways to improve the virtual courtroom experience, Dr. Helm. said she’s looking for rituals that can substitute for the mental prep time that a quiet plane ride used to provide. On the positive side, Dr. Helm said she is noticing that there are fewer interruptions from opposing counsel and less “mansplaining” since virtual platforms aren’t conducive to letting people talk over one another. 

The full video recording of the webinar is available here. It was also featured in The Recorder’s Skilled in the Art column, as well as The American Lawyer’s Litigation Daily column.