As many experienced trial consultants can attest, travel is a necessary evil. We are often away from family and friends for extended periods of time, typically far from home and traveling with a trial team. Sometimes we know the team we will be traveling with, and often meet a group of total strangers for the first time. Depending on the type of trial and duration, a variety of individual factors can be altered as a result of the experience. This can include everything and anything, such as our diet and the amount of sleep (if any) each night. While I would consider myself to be an exceptionally “low maintenance” type of person, I have found that there are 10 things that I consistently rely upon during any trial.
These items are outside of the obvious required to perform my job, such as laptops, software and a few hundred feet of cable. The items address either a psychological component of the trial process (i.e. maintaining one’s sanity whilst working 23.9 hours a day) or they assist in an aspect of personal trial preparation.
1. Photos of family and friends
My family is the most important thing in my life, and unfortunately my work schedule puts a significant damper on the amount of time that we get to spend together. They are in large part the motivation that keeps me focused on doing the best job possible. Whenever I travel, I typically pack several picture frames of photos to keep me grounded in what I’m doing. Few things keep me as focused as when I remind myself of how hard my parents have worked (and continue to work) or of happier times with loved ones.
2. Advil Liquid Gels
Almost everyone gets a headache during a trial, either by dint of the stress of the event, dehydration or poor nutrition. I have been an avid Tylenol supporter for years, however the near instantaneous response of the liquid gels are better in a trial situation when the problem needs to be cured as fast as possible.
3. Water
I try to limit my caffeine intake to just 2-3 servings each day, usually either through coffee or diet soda. While I know other trial consultants who consume a box of ice cream sandwiches and a six pack of Red Bull to stay awake during trial nights, I have found that staying well hydrated by drinking a lot of water is a better course of action. While it doesn’t offer the immediate jolt of energy that other alternatives yield, staying well hydrated is healthier and smarter in the long run. Plus, water doesn’t have any negative side effects.
4. Swiss Army knife
A small $20 Swiss Army knife can be a savior in situations that require the benefit of a multifunction tool. Whether opening boxes of IT equipment or unscrewing a projector to install a new bulb, I often either ship a Swiss Army knife out to the trial location or include one in checked or shipped luggage. This, or another multifunction tool, can be one of the most useful items that will be consistently relied upon. My hope is that, in the end, the corkscrew will be used to open the bottles of champagne when we win.
5. Blackberry Curve 8820
My Blackberry rarely leaves my sight – for most (and me) it is a primary source of communication, collaboration, organization and project management. It also has Brickbreaker and a web browser, both of which are vital.
6. Sharpie markers
Sharpie markers are permanent on most surfaces, fade and water resistant, have a nontoxic formula and are offered in dozens of different colors. I typically use them to draw a timeline or graphic on a legal pad, mark boxes of equipment or quickly label a CD/DVD. The variety of colors means that specific information can be labeled or color schemes developed, and the angled tip means almost anything can be drawn with it. They are also inexpensive and last a really long time.
7. Verizon wireless card
I never rely on the availability or security of public wifi or wireless access points. While many Federal courthouses, hotels and commercial offices provide wireless Internet access, a dedicated card from a provider can offer the most reliable connection. I personally use a USB wireless access card, as the universality of the connection means I can access the Internet from any computer with an available USB port. The connection and service are well worth the $60 monthly fee.
8. iPod
I always bring my iPod with me to trial, as it can be a great way to pass the time when traveling or to drown out excess noise (such as copy machines) in the work room. I currently have an iPod Touch, and usually copy directions, notes and other related information to it prior to traveling. Several of the applications that can be installed will assist in the trial experience – such as trying to find restaurants that offer takeout or local vendors.
9. Wrinkle-free shirts
Ironing is the only domestic task that I have never fully mastered and completely despise. I’m really quite bad at it. Which way does the sleeve go on the ironing board? Why does it say I should fill it with water only for it to spill everywhere? What if I accidentally spray myself in the eyes with the starch? (Rinse your eyes and use Visine…not that I’d know from experience…). In addition to not being a world champion ironer, I’m also not the most careful suitcase packer, either. Thus, I typically pack wrinkle-free shirts in lieu of the fabrics that require ironing.
With a wrinkle-free shirt, I don’t have to worry about my appearance or plan an extra 20 minutes of ironing that would be time better spent. This also means I don’t have to spend the time, money and risks (lost shirts) associated with dry cleaning. When in doubt, or if I forget to pack a wrinkle-free, I typically perform the “Ficocello Two Panel,” which is when one irons only the front of the shirt, leaving the sleeves and back completely un-ironed (my suit jacket will cover them).
10. Bananas
Rich in potassium, bananas can be a quick mid-morning or afternoon snack, and pack easily in my laptop bag. In addition to their mood boosting nature, bananas have been proven to lower the risks associated with hypertension. I typically buy a few from a local grocery store before the trial begins or grab one each morning if the hotel offers a continental breakfast.
As an added perk, the oils found on the inside of a banana peel can be used to shine and polish leather shoes. Simply rub the inside of the banana peel against the outside of the shoe, let it sit for 3 minutes, and then wipe away the excess with a dry paper towel or napkin. I have used this trick on more than one occasion, especially when traveling to court in the snow or if I have been traveling non-stop and not had the chance to shine them.
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