LITIGATION SECTION MEETING 1 of 3
"Session 1- Pretrial Frenzy: Turning the Case File into a Trial Plan
Preparing for trial requires organization, strategy, attention to detail, and teamwork. In this practical, paralegal-led session, experienced litigation paralegals will walk attendees through the critical steps of transforming a case file into a well-organized trial plan.
Attendees will learn how to organize and manage trial exhibits, identify evidentiary gaps, prepare exhibit and witness lists, and assemble witness preparation materials. The session will also explore the process of preparing deposition designations and counter-designations, as well as coordinating trial materials with motions in limine to ensure evidence is properly addressed before trial.
Designed by paralegals for paralegals, this session will provide practical insights, real-world experiences, and best practices to help litigation paralegals anticipate challenges, support trial counsel, meet critical deadlines, and confidently navigate the demanding pretrial process.
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Presented By: E. Penny Gutierrez & Garrison Giali


Penny Gutierrez is a Senior Litigation Trial Paralegal at Walsworth handling insurance defense matters related to bad faith. In addition, Penny teaches Litigation in the paralegal program at UCI Division of Continuing Education. Lastly, Penny is a Executive Board member with the Orange County Paralegal Association. Her current role on the board is the Chief Financial Officer.
Garrison Giali is a Chief Litigation Paralegal at BKLW handling pre-indictment investigation through trial. Garrison supports his trial teams in all aspects of high-stakes litigation in federal courts across the U.S. Garrison volunteers his spare time as the Criminal Section Chair for the Orange County Paralegal Association.
OCPA is a State Bar of California Approved MCLE provider and certifies that this event qualifies for MCLE CREDIT 1.0.
$10.00 for OCPA Members only.
$20.00 for Non-Members.
$5.00 for OCPA Students only

Per OCPA Policy, please pay via Paypal, Debit or Credit Card on the website. Check or cash payments are not accepted.
*Cancellation Policy* - If you need to cancel your registration, please e-mail vptechnology@ocparalegal.org at least 48 hours prior to the event in order to receive credit for a future meeting. No refunds will be issued.