How To Win In Court With These 7 Body Language Secrets!
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- Опубликовано: 17 май 2024
- Have you wondered what you’re telling people without speaking? Do you know how to use body language to win in Court?
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:36 - Use Body Language to be Boring
02:22 - Win in Court by being quietly engaged
05:05 - Win in Court by being Proactive, not Reactive
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70% of all communication is non-verbal, but most of my clients don’t know how to use body language to their advantage.
Use body language to be boring
When it comes to courtroom attire, standing out is a bad thing. In Court, you want your story and your facts to be the sole focus of the judge or jury. If the judge or jury is focused on what you’re wearing, then they aren’t paying attention to your testimony or your evidence. This is how you use body language to avoid making statements that you don’t intend to make.
Wear boring colors and patterns
Bright flashy colors are strictly off limits. Certain colors convey certain emotions. Red conveys anger and aggression. You don’t want the judge or jury to associate that emotion with you and your testimony. Yellow is a cheerful color that conveys optimism. Very few people are cheerful and optimistic about having to go to trial and you don’t want to give that impression.
You want to wear dark blues or medium/light grays while in court. These colors convey strength and wisdom.
Also, do not wear animal prints or crazy patterns. Unless you’re Carole Baskin, do not wear leopard print to Court! You should only wear solid color shirts, suits, and blouses if you want to use body language to win.
Wear boring jewelry
Flashy and expensive jewelry is a big no-no unless your case relies upon you looking rich and not needing money. But let’s be honest. If you’re going to court, then there is likely no benefit to you looking wealthy.
If you’ve been injured in a car wreck and you’re suing the reckless driver, then looking like you don’t need very much money is a fast way to guarantee that the judge/jury doesn’t give you as much money.
On the other hand, if you’re the reckless driver who’s being sued, then you definitely don’t want to look like you have a lot of money to spare. If you do, then that’s a fast way to guarantee that the judge/jury takes some of it to give it to the injured driver.
If you choose simple stud earrings, solid wedding bands, or even no jewelry, then you can use body language to your advantage.
Win in Court by being quietly engaged
In court, you’re under a microscope. Every move you make is closely scrutinized whether you’re on the witness stand or simply sitting at the counsel table. You can use body language to boost your credibility by remaining engaged in the process without being a distraction.
Take lots of notes
Imagine with me for a moment a Plaintiff and a Defendant in Court. One is sitting there staring at their water while the other is watching the witness on the witness stand, writing notes on their yellow legal pad, and reviewing their binder of exhibits. Did you know that most people consider the less engaged party to be more guilty and/or less truthful?
Remember back to when you saw a child, or you might even just consider your own children, and when they were caught in a lie or caught doing something they knew they weren’t supposed to be doing. How did they look? They would sheepishly look at the ground, not make eye contact, and weren’t generally engaged in the conversation. That’s the body language that you’re trying to avoid displaying.
The easiest way to stay engaged is to take notes. Honestly, it doesn’t matter what you write, just keep writing. My personal recommendation is to quickly summarize the testimony from the witness in just a few words. It will help you to remember what was said later on if you have to refer back.
But you’re not limited to writing down testimony as you should also write down questions that you think that your attorney should still ask. Before I finish with a witness, I will always take a moment to lean over to my client to ask if there was anything else that I may have missed. That brings me to my next point.
Pass notes to your attorney
I can tell you from experience that it is impossible to listen to the witness give their answer while also listening to clients ask questions. Not only does your attorney have to listen to the witness’s answer, but they also have to process that information and develop their next question.
Additionally, if you try talking to your attorney, there’s a very high likelihood that the judge/jury could overhear your conversation. Even if they do not overhear it, the simply fact remains that the time that the two of you spend talking is a full stop...
Music:
We Cruisin’ - Otis McDonald
Music provided via RUclips Studio Audio Library
I hope to never need this advice, but unlike some other lawyers on RUclips, this lawyer doesn’t brag that he thinks he knew everything because of how rich they are. Matthew Harris on the other hand is calm, professional and knows his stuff.
Thank you for such incredibly kind words! I'm undeserving of such praise, but I'll do my best to earn it every day forward. It is an honor and a privilege to educate.
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC thank you for your response. You got yourself a fan. please keep it up because it’s always fun to watch your videos
WTF lawyer are you watching who thinks they know everything because they're "rich"?
Amber Turd really took that "take notes" tip incredibly seriously.
I hope I never need any of this advice, but it is very well explained.
Thank you! I hope you never need this advice either. lol However, advice like this is good to know *just* in case. 😉
Much respect to TACTP. I was a Forward Observer in the US Army. Later in my career I had the pleasure of attending JTAC training. This is great advice, and advice I’m needing at this time. Thank you for sharing. 🇺🇸 🎖️
Heck yeah! I always loved training with the F.O.s at Fort Campbell. Y'all are a good bunch of dudes. I'm glad I could offer a little education to help you in your case. Have you seen our video on How to Testify? ruclips.net/video/_rNlZH-5R48/видео.html
Thank you! I spent time at Campbell 1st Battalion, 187 Infantry Regiment. I wanted to comeback and confirm that this is all great advice. I went through a week long Civil trial as the plaintiff two weeks ago and everything you’ve shared in your videos is solid advice. Unspoken body language is extremely important, especially when the opposing counsel is working to tear down your character. Thank you for the great advice.
@@Pharoe29 Rakkasans! Thank you! I always worry whether my guidance actually translates to real-world practice. Glad to hear that it was helpful.
In a few weeks we have a video coming out about how to question witnesses, testify, make objections, and admit evidence pro se.
Excellent info. Thank you!
"unless you are Carol Baskin" 😂😂😂
😂😂😂
Wow, what a sign! Dogs and when you talk about these crimes the people living large say "what are you talking about!" Thats getting old!
Thank you Matthew.
Thank you for sharing.
Love the tie! Wreck em Tech!!!!
👈⬆ #GunsUp
I thought the tie was flashy and distracting :)
Thank you for this video, very useful!
Great video Matthew!!
Thank you Suzanne! Fun fact: every single one of these tips was learned the hard way from clients over the years. lol
Soooo, what you’re say’n is blowing kisses to the jury isn’t good? 🧐hmm
Hahaha! 😂 I actually DIDN'T say that, though now I'm thinking I probably should have...
😂
Not even licking my lips 😋
@@onewiselady6412 well darn, that’s no fun💁🏼♀️
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC aaaaand so you’re say’n winking is out of the question too😩 😉
So, if we have a disgust or "no" face and body language when someone lies, is it good or bad?
Can we quietly show with our head and facial expression we disagree?
Or do we only have to write down notes while staying neutral?
Golden, the best "Lawyer channel" I've come across thus far.
Thank you. I will be going to court next Friday and this has really helped me!
Outstanding! Did you see our video on Pro Se Winning Tips?
Not yet!@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC
I already retained an attorney.@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC
Hey Matthew, I love your videos. Keep them coming.quick question, I heard if you have a home and a relative or family member passed away and was buried on the property banks can't take it and you could get away with no land taxes? True or fake news, you think?
There MIGHT be some truth in that as far as protection from the bank foreclosing on the burial plot, but not for taxes. It would definitely depend on what state you're in.
I knew I was just getting my ZOOM (Video chat) 👉🏽 CCW case rescheduled, but I STILL wish I knew not to wear a RED shirt for the 1st meeting.
Hello
Where are you guys located?
I’m looking for a job and would like to apply!
Thank you
Mr. Mathew Your advice is accepted, it does make sense. It would be great if you could kindly inform the difference between "Business of Law" & " Business of Justice " . One more thing, Mr. Mathew will you please advice me on the following.? - In a scenario when who the culprits/criminals are is evident & what is the no. of and nature of crimes committed is evident & who are the victims is evident, isn't it a redundant process?
Great advice and excellent presentation. I’ve got a summary offense case as the defendant in about 3 months at the court of common pleas in Pennsylvania. At the Magistrate court I was found guilty. My lawyer was extremely passive and really let me down, not asking important questions on the cross exam of the plaintiff, he really blew it. Within a few days I already interviewed and hired a new lawyer. I feel much more confident moving forward. The plaintiff and her two witnesses were dressed terribly. She was in grey full scrubs and clogs, the husband in shorts and a dirty wrinkled short sleeve polo shirt and the other witness in jeans and a T-Shirt. Unbelievable the lack of respect.
Thanks, I have jury duty on the 27th, if I’m chosen I’ll be looking for these.
Matthew great Video x your so knowable xx
Thanks so much! I hope you don't ever need any of these tips. 😊
The do not react is wonderful advice. Just take notes and come back to the point. Pro se girl civil it’s tuff but doable. Thank you
Great advice!
Any tricks or advice on being a juror?
You know, I have several videos on what to expect during jury duty, but I haven't yet done one on how to be a good juror. That's a great idea!
It's going on the list. Thanks!
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC I was also wondering what the 2 different sides look for when selecting a juror. I imagine that is a rabbit hole within itself.
Natural, engaged body language conveys honesty, so long it isnt overdone. But then it its overdone, it wouldnt be natural.
In the Netherlands they actually did an (independent of course) study on this and several other aspects. They found out that even people who act like shitheads towards the judge don't get more jail time for the same crime a 'kind' well-presented person did.
Of course it might be different in the US.
Is it not true that when the church brought in the old Moses civil law after the reconstruction act, that all roman lex is written in future tense(1usc8), because it falls behind the Hebrew calendar 3760 years? Public law 102-14. Thus using those who practice at law because they have abandoned the origin of man for a birthdate?
A friend with prior drug convictions took blame for drugs that were found during a bust to protect a girl who was leading him on and he was trying to date bc her little baby was present. Later to find out she wanted nothing to do with him. He’s now facing 30 years in 2 days he goes to trial.
He done everything the dtf asked and some however they aren’t taking that in consideration.. what can he do to help break the case? He’s now got 2 little babies himself and 30 years is too long
Are the "body language secrets" relevant in personal injury trials, or criminal case trials in court? Thank you and I appreciate your legal commentaries.
Yes, which is how they know you're faking it.
Both!
These are some solod facts. TY
No, thank YOU for watching! 😀
I like your video and all the good points you have, but the “ music” in the background was horrible. I had to go back several times to listen. Thank you 🙏🏽
Thanks for the feedback. I've met with our Editor and we've been toning down the volume of the background music for recent videos. I appreciate you watching and helping us to improve! ❤️
I'm covered
1:15 true 😂😂
As a pro se coach, body language is a fundamental topic. Body language is the primary way humans communicate. Always has been and always will be. It is so critical to humans that it is the ONLY way we pick our lifelong partners.
That's fantastic! I am literally working on a Best Tips and Practices for Pro Se Representation script right now. I was considering pointing to this video and our How to Testify video, but now you've confirmed that this is a must. Thanks!
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC I'd love to read a copy. I've been teaching these concepts to pro se litigants since 2018. Having worked within the LE community for over 25 years, survival largely depends on the ability to determine body language since humans not always mean what they say. When I see a person making "self soothing gestures" for example, I ask myself: “Why?” The individual feels uneasy about something and I need to find out what that something is. These simple concepts apply to pro se litigants in many areas such as depositions, taking the stand as a witness, cross examining, and interpreting the judges demeanor at any given time. I don't see how pro se litigants can be effective without being able to decipher non-verbal language.
... you actively 'teach' people to represent themselves? Do you warn them that they have a fool for a client? Are you a lawyer, by any chance? Or are you one of those guys who just LARP's? I wish I had of known instead of so many years in law school all I had to do was watch RUclips to become a lawyer. :(
@@bashpr0mpt-rc5dd Well now you know you just wasted your parents money! I'm sorry you had to learn this like this; but now that you know, you can finally move on with your life once you have properly processed your grief. All the best to you, attorney!
@@orlandomarquez7872 What when someone is not culpable but traumatized, a Highly Sensitive Human with disease and Asoergers disability, and consequently tense, socially inept, sleepdeprived and nervous of peopole and in the strange situation? Less wise people may not check to distinguish between the two!? I was falsely accused - and maltreated - by a layman running a support-home, of "not being ill" Despite it showing , them knowing and despite me having a (tiny) disability sick-pension, which is not approved lightly, but after 11 years of illness. He had his whole staff to adopt this false idea and further abuse me.
The judge in my false guardianship-meeting behaved so nervously that I thought she might have compassion and unease for how I was handled and falsely committed (right word?) My so-called lawyer then said it was not. I wonder what it was, and if she was fit to work in that state.
My Washington attorney took my Oregon auto crash. I did not know 😅she wasn’t licensed in Oregon. Also did not know she had a suspended license history (12 years or so ago). Also, did not realize she has no assistant. Found this out after I signed approximately 20 months ago.
It’s been approximately 8 months & she still hasn’t finished her part of our completed discovery response for the other attorney. Lots of excuses. What can I do please?
Oh my goodness! Is it possible that your Washington attorney was admitted to practice "Pro Hac Vice" in Oregon?
Carole Baskin! 🤣🤣 I'm so glad I found your channel through RA.
So are we! ❤
Me too!!!
I was told to wear pink in court by 2 totally different attorneys. 😅
Do you have a video on depositions? I am not looking forward to that part of my case.
Pink wouldn't be a terrible color to wear, depending on the circumstances, but it also isn't the safest. I haven't yet done a Deposition video, but it is definitely on the list!
My court is coming up this will help a bit
That's wonderful! Have you seen our other Court related videos? 5 Reasons You'll Lose is a great video to start with (so you know what NOT to do).
That is useful info. More useful than many 1st Amendment aimless audits I have seen.
That really means a lot to me! Thank you! (though I think this comment may have been meant for one of our other videos.) I'm working on another video right now that is a 1st Amendment Audit Guide for Police and Government Workers.
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC I meant it for this video and your others are very informational too. I appreciate it that you take the time out to share such tips.
@@Peep1988 Well thank you! 😊
I like how you use your hands to call your audience in. What about doing that in court? Not the Lawyer, but the defendant or in my case, a probate trial? Jewelry: I have a necklace with a very small pendant that has my late Brother's fingerprint on it. Would that be acceptable? Because when I get stressed I hold that a lot. And crying: I can't talk about my brother without crying. Tears are forming as I type this. How do I not cry at all? Or is it okay to cry? Should I just send a lawyer in to represent me? I've held off on making major repairs to his house that I am living in for two reasons. One: I am on a fixed income. Two: I have a sister who wants to change anything I want to do, and I want to follow my Brother wishes on what he would want done. Three: I don't want to put money into this house and have the house taken away from me. I also have a big plumbing bill because I had to replace all the pipes under the house. Is it necessarily the person who spends the most money who get's the house? My sister paid for his funeral. I paid for the food at the dinner we had for the family and I also bought his headstone as well as paying the taxes and home owners insurance. I hate being materialistic, but that is how one or two of my sister's think. I don't want them to get this house and sale it. It's my brother's house and he worked hard for it and was so proud of it. There's a lot more I could ask, but I will stop there. This is just the tip of the iceberg. Oh just one more question. My brother named me as the beneficiary to his the money in his bank account. Will that help me? It wasn't much. I really am stopping here. Any advise you could give me would be deeply appreciated.
Oh Debbie, my heart just breaks for you. If the jewelry is conservative and not flashy/gaudy, then you'll be fine. I think having a pendant of your brother's fingerprint would help you to calm down, versus asking you to leave it at home.
It is ok to cry, so long as you aren't intentionally crying to garner extra support. Laughing and crying are natural emotional responses, and it is worse for you to try to suppress your natural emotional response. Imagine the Judge saying something funny and you intentionally not laughing. Can you see how they are the same?
You should definitely hire an attorney to represent you. However, you should know that you can't just send an attorney in on your behalf as your testimony is likely a necessary step for any relief that you're seeking. Find an attorney with the heart of a teacher.
The division of someone's estate doesn't rely on who spends money. It relies on the Will of the person who has passed on.
(I think I got all the questions)
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC Thank you so much! As far as the pendant, it's smaller than a dime. My Brother didn't leave a will. I wish to God he had, even if it wasn't me getting the house. Doesn't make much sense, does it? I just want to finish his house the way he would've wanted. God Bless you Matthew Harris.
I personally do not like the over use of the hands. It feels that this constant "Karate" gesticulating smacks of an over rehearsed speech rather than something more natural. The judge has a lifetime of seeing people present, they know when the balance between speech/facts and presentation is skewed. Caveat though, I am not in N. America.
Found you through RA. 😊
Commenting on the facebook advert not the main topic.
Can you win your trial case with a public defender
I would like to watch the news with this guy and get his reactions 😂
Only if you're ready to hear a string of obscenities at nearly every other story these days. 🤣
Also, being engaged and improved posture is a curtesy to the jury. It means that you respect their time and effort. Falling asleep in court is a no-no. Disrespecting a jury is not a wise thing to do.
What does it mean, case postponed for instruction?
I'm not sure. That's a new one for me.
Does the judge allow music in the courtroom.
Music just to vibe to? No. Music as relevant evidence that is part of your case? Yes.
I once had to play Lonely Island - Captain Jack Sparrow in Court because it was relevant to the case.
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC
I’m referring to the music that is playing while you’re presenting your comments.
Distract full for those who are paying close attention to what you’re presenting.😊
So what if I have cerebral palsy .... Or i dont have no hands... Italians use they hands everyday all day
😆 Well, if you don't have any hands then I think, legally, they have to revoke your Italian citizenship.
Distracting hand gestures, terrible tie, and shirt cuffs too big for hand size .. got it
What About the Color Burgundy??
Absolutely never.
Black, dark blue, dark grey. Head to shoes.
The judge will not respect you in any other colors .
There are no exceptions.
Any other colors shows arrogance.
@MjF809 but isn't that Judgeing a book by its cover 🤔?
I would add personal grooming. Get a haircut, shave, don't wear strong smells like strong perfume, cut your nails. If you have tattoos try your best to conceal them, if you have to have jewelry keep it simple such as a wedding ring, religious symbols a small cross necklace or other similar types of jewelry.
Great suggestions! Personal grooming definitely plays a significant role in making a positive impression. It conveys that you respect the Court and the process.
background music is way too loud
Not in Ky
👍
gotta wait 5 more years to leave a comment on my experience lmfao, god forbid
Good background music...
Perhaps Amber Heard’s creepy stare at the jurors?
Excellent example of what NOT to do! Maybe her lawyer told her it was a staring contest and she thought she was winning?
I’m Carol Baskin… 😂
Good advice But, this video uses text one liners (AKA bullet points) doe s it not? Please argue that this assertion is wrong.
But you’re wearing a red tie makes sense
True, but that is because I want to spark an emotional reaction among YT viewers and not win a trial here. 😉
One word: schyster.
What the heck did I do to you?!
Letecia Stauch really needed to watch this before her trail. She did the opposite of all this
You're absolutely right! You know, MOST people in court get it wrong.
Pretty sure we saw a few trials when defendants should have watched this
We sure have! I'm going to start emailing a link to their attorneys mid-trial. 🤣
hahaha i'll just not notice your nice tie by timidly not looking anyone in the eye... judges love that!*
*parody, not legal advice, judges do not love that
This, channel accross.. While.. Scrolling.. And.. Its helpful.. But,, one thing,,, is in my mind.. What if other side is.. Powerful,, like, in highest.. Position..?andnyour.. Ordinary.. People.. 😑
Its takes time, years,... Might,, lose.. Or jail.. I've seen in movie,, but its happened.. In real life.. Worst fact🤔😔
Awe you mean no don't tread on me ties?
Unfortunately, no Gadsden Ties. That is, if you want to win.
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC ok, now I am going to wear one, and win, because I have a clear cut case of police harassment, first amendment violation, and appelant courts only see documents not you.
So if you're falling asleep in court and passing gas in court I wonder what that means I guess you're guilty huh? What about insulting the judge the jury the prosecutors and threatening them through social media?
Bullshit, I can't believe how out of hand that got sitting in on court rooms seeing what these people are all about! When are people's life's going to be valued?
Sounds a bit misleading
What do you mean?
That's so stupid, so I'm getting judged because I look poor,
Unfortunately, yes. That's human nature. It isn't fair, but that's what happens.
@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC no it's not human nature to discriminate against someone just because they can't afford nice cloths, it's just a good example of a judge abusing his power, Jesus didn't judge his disciples just because they wore rags so no it's not human nature, it's the devil at work,and it's disgusting
@@pinkconfidantp2me912Thats just it, Jesus is superhuman who can see the condition of our hearts. In the meantime you have to deal with faulty humans and our internal biases. Also, poor doesn’t have to mean dirty. Make an effort to look neat and presentable esp if you’re going into a Court of law.
the suit doesn't fit and you look like you don't wear it very regularly
😆 Post a video of you in your suit to show us how it's done.
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC Thanks but I prefer to remain somewhat anonymous.
@@axeman2638 lol
I've learned that you have a badly fitted suit got to the gym bro u have sleeves to fill
🤣 Show us your suits. Let's compare.
@@MatthewHarrisLawPLLC You got me there bro, I only have one and yes probably your worst is still better than mine but inn my personal opinion your sleeves are too loose, get your forearms bulking bro hit the gym :D
That's a cheap suit 😂😂😂😂😂😂
😂 Did you really "like" your own comment? 😂
This guy said in his video
You dont want to look rich or expensive for good reason.
Court is not a runway fashion show