Your Experienced Market Research Partner


Balaban Market Research Consulting is a leading market research company in the United States and is owned by Caryn L. Balaban. Ms. Balaban has an extensive educational and professional background including a Master’s degree from Yale University. 

BMRC consultants provide the legal community with effective tools to evaluate case elements and assumptions prior to trial or settlement negotiations. Using our customized community surveys, self- administered questionnaires and moderator-led focus groups, BMRC clients are able to determine how a case will stand up against the opposition.  
 

Community Surveys
Community surveys are the most reliable jury research instrument to identify the demographics and the values of the favorable/unfavorable juror for jury selection.  They are used to identify and understand general community reactions to the issues pertinent to a case and interpret the sociological, psychological and demographic data. 

Surveys are particularly useful in high-profile cases that have the potential of directly impacting the community and influencing juror perceptions. The data generated by community surveys is statistically significant and is, therefore, particularly helpful in the jury selection process. With the results of a BMRC designed community survey, counsel will attain a clear and precise set of criteria for appropriate juror selection. Community surveys also provide information that assists attorneys in mapping out a successful trial strategy by measuring community attitudes relevant to the broader issues of your case and screening the "winability" of a case in a particular venue. In many cases, community surveys are used to evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of settling. 

Focus Groups
BMRC's moderator-led focus groups allow attorneys to see behind the "closed door " where jurors respond to case issues, receive and filter case information, and differ in their individual reactions before trial, mediation or settlement negotiations. Importantly, by using focus groups, attorneys learn how to present all case elements in a manner most likely to lead to a favorable verdict for their clients.

BMRC has developed a screening process that ensures a representative mix of respondents. Prospective respondents are screened to meet pre-determined criteria before they are invited to participate in the focus group. This screening is designed to generate a demographic and attitudinal mix of respondents who do not know the parties involved and have no vested interest in the outcome of the case.

The day of the focus group respondents complete a self-administered questionnaire designed to elicit background information and uncover preconceived attitudes and beliefs relevant to the specific case issues.  Specifically, questionnaires are designed to understand juror values by learning what life experiences drive decision-making relevant to the issues of your case. 

A presentation, prepared collaboratively by BMRC and counsel, is made to the focus group respondents following completion of the questionnaire. This presentation provides an overview of the case, outlining key points for the respondents. At this juncture respondents are allowed to ask questions to clarify issues and to provide answers fundamental to their understanding the basic issues of the case. 

Throughout the focus group process, BMRC consultants stop to "take the pulse" of respondents. As respondents hear opening statements and closing statements, witness testimony and view exhibits they are asked questions designed to measure the impact on their perceptions and the credibility of the issues presented.  Attorneys are able to observe and listen to all of the subtle, individual respondent reactions through a sound-proof one-way mirror. Videoconferencing is available for attorneys who are not able to attend the focus groups. Audio and videotapes are provided for review in case and witness preparation.

For more information about Balaban Market Research Consulting please contact us.