The Art of the Second Chair

Associates Hannah Anderson and Andrew Jackson authored the American Bar Association article “The Art of the Second Chair”, arguing that a capable second chair is essential for successful trial litigation. 

In the article, the authors share that the second chair’s roles include handling distractions, knowing key documents and exhibits, preserving the appellate record, observing jurors and opposition, taking comprehensive notes, and managing the charging conference, jury instructions, and verdict form.

The coauthors note that a second chair is a primary contributor in any great trial experience, win or lose. By owning and successfully playing these six roles, second-chair lawyers can prove that they are an asset to the first chair and to the client and will see more trial opportunities for years to come, while paving the way to step into the first-chair role.

The full article is available to ABA members.