High-profile case management
Mastering high-profile case management
While most cases involve typical civil and criminal offenses, car accidents, traffic tickets, contract disputes, drug deals, and larcenies, courts do find themselves in the middle of a dispute where a particularly heinous crime is charged, a novel or hot button issue is raised, or a well-known public figure is involved. These high-profile cases can garner unexpected attention and captivate the public in compelling and unexpected ways.
When this occurs, the proceeding is transformed into a drama of extraordinary notoriety. Cameras are deployed to search for short sound bites, online articles produce attention-grabbing headlines, and social media sites generate trending hashtags — all of which are focused on a single case, courtroom, judge, and possibly jury members.
Insights from the trenches
While each case is different, our experts offer recommendations that can be modified for most circumstances and jurisdictions. Effective management of a high-profile case (HPC) requires a broad skill base and extensive preparation from a team of justice system professionals.
Types of high-profile court cases
Celebrity
Cases with a celebrity defendant, victim, or witness create added pressures due to their unique nature.
Difficult litigants
Difficult litigants can create a heightened need for a calm demeanor by the trial judge.
Capital & heinous crimes
Capital cases and cases involving heinous crimes are some of the most difficult to manage.
Notorious
Some cases turn into high-profile cases because of the notoriety of the person or the severity of the situation.
Terrorism & organized crime
Cases involving terrorism/organized crime cases can generate a large amount of attention and create unique security challenges.
Political
Political cases may involve political corruption or revolve around political issues.
Advisory committee & staff
This updated guidance was developed by an advisory committee of expert trial judges, court administrators, public information officers, information technology officers, court security experts, court clerks, and others with extensive knowledge about high-profile case management. The foundation for this work originated from the 1998 edition of "Managing Notorious Trials" and a 2015 web version, "High-Profile Cases in the 21st Century."
Share your lessons from the field
Has your court recently handled a high-profile case? Help us grow this resource by telling us about your experience or sharing your court orders and documents.
Center for Jury Studies
Improving the jury experience through effective and efficient management that promotes public trust and confidence.