Hillary Abraham is a national trial strategist and seasoned research analyst. She crafts authentic trial messaging designed to turn jurors into advocates for her clients during deliberations.
Hillary draws on her multidisciplinary background, decade of research experience in academic and industry settings, and hands-on trial experience to design and execute methodologically sound research studies tailored to her clients’ specific needs. She specializes in integrating findings from statistical data and rigorous analysis of mock juror discussions to generate a holistic understanding of how juries perceive case strengths and vulnerabilities and how they make decisions based on those perceptions. Her mixed-methods approach to research and analysis develops well-rounded, persuasive themes to emphasize at trial and provides actionable insights to bring to voir dire, jury selection, and strike strategy.
Hillary thrives in high-stakes, high-pressure environments. She can accurately track and quickly assess new information to provide in-the-moment insights and recommendations to her clients in research and at jury selection, making her equally adept at de-selecting juries in small state courts as in high-stakes federal cases involving hundreds of potential jurors in the venire. Her approach to jury selection delves beyond demographics and stereotypes and into individual attitudes and life experiences, generating insightful recommendations for strike strategy.
Prior to joining ThemeVision, Hillary was a research specialist at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). There, she led small and large-scale research projects on behalf of critical stakeholders from the automotive, technology and insurance industries to explore driver acceptance and understanding of semi-automated and “self-driving” vehicles. Her work was highly publicized in both academic periodicals and popular media. Hillary received her B.A in Anthropology from the University of Michigan and her M.S. in Informatics from the University of California, Irvine.
Visual Storytelling Strategist & Litigation Consultant
With a career spanning over two decades, David Bartholomew is a seasoned graphic artist and litigation consultant, highly regarded for his ability to translate complex legal concepts into impactful visuals that tell your case story. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Management from Purdue University, David combines his analytical skills, creativity, and extensive design experience to craft compelling graphics and presentations.
As a Graphic Artist and Litigation Consultant at ThemeVision, David collaborates with clients to develop visuals that communicate evidence and case facts effectively. His work extends from static exhibit boards to interactive electronic presentations, and includes video editing and animations. David’s unique approach involves a blend of software knowledge and expertise, critical thinking, analytical skills, as well as a deep understanding of design fundamentals. David’s work, benefits from being trial tested and often is refined through focus groups, mock trials, and jury research.
With a focus on clear and persuasive communication to tell your case story, David consults directly with lawyers, subject matter experts, and legal professionals. He provides visual presentation strategies for trials and proceedings, leveraging his proficiency in design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite. David’s proficiency extends to video editing, animation, interactive production, databases and web design.
In addition to his design work, David has extensive experience presenting trial and case materials to judges, arbiters and juries. His experience includes trial presentation packages like OnCue and Trial Director, David is an experienced and certified hot seat operator, with experience in several states, courts and venues. As a hot-seater, David can help your trial team put forward the most organized, efficient and effective presentation possible.
Before his tenure at ThemeVision, David showcased his graphics skills as the Senior Graphic Artist at The Indianapolis Star, where he managed the work of a design team. His design experience includes roles as an Illustrator/New Media Designer at Cenveo/Graphic Arts Center and a Graphic Arts Manager at Topics Newspapers.
In summary, from hot-seating exhibit presentations in trials to visualizing data using Tableau or Excel, David’s expertise spans various aspects of graphic arts and legal support.
David Bartholomew is not just a graphic artist; he is a strategic thinker, a software expert, a visual storyteller, and a valuable asset to any legal team seeking to enhance their advocacy through compelling visuals and effective communication.
Courtney Tharp works closely with clients and the research team to design, plan, coordinate, and seamlessly execute jury research projects ranging from surveys to full mock trials.
Courtney’s interests and strengths lie at the unique intersection of law and psychology. She received her Paralegal Certificate from IUPUI and, as a CORE Registered Paralegal with the National Federal of Paralegal Associations, Courtney brings great knowledge about managing the complex processes of trial preparation and jury selection. As a research strategist, Courtney’s work extends to qualitative research and moderating mock trial jury interviews.
Courtney received her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Purdue University – Indianapolis with a focus on both civil and criminal applications of research methods. She has authored articles for professional paralegal publications at both the state and national levels.
Before joining ThemeVision, Courtney served as a legal administrative assistant for a Fortune 500 in-house legal department, where she managed multiple process-improvement projects while supporting a full team of attorneys in various fields.
When not taking advantage of continuing education or reading, Courtney enjoys painting, ceramics, and spending quality time with her family.
Aly Hughes works with ThemeVision’s team to guide clients in strategic decisions at all stages of litigation. As a lawyer and a litigator, she is uniquely positioned to understand the nuances and challenges clients face. As a consultant, she’s able to approach complex situations from a higher level with a fresh set of eyes, allowing for creative problem-solving. She has experience assisting with focus groups and mock juries, as well as demographic research on relevant jury pools.
Aly focuses on finding the most compelling and concise manner in which to present information to the relevant audience, whether it is a jury, a board of directors, or readers of a publication. Aly encourages clients to get to the bottom line: what matters most, and how to convey it.
In her legal practice, Aly works with a wide range of clients across industries in both civil and criminal matters. She is an associate in Barnes & Thornburg LLP’s Indianapolis office. ThemeVision is affiliated with Barnes & Thornburg LLP.
Clients value Aly for her honest and down-to-earth communication style accompanied by a healthy sense of humor. Aly earned her Bachelor of Arts in creative writing from the University of Arizona and her J.D. from the University of Notre Dame.
Amy Tryon assists ThemeVision’s team with focus groups, mock juries, jury pool demographic research, and jury selection. She thrives on collaborating closely with clients, working to ensure they are fully prepared and equipped to achieve their objectives. Amy’s passion lies in unraveling the intricacies of juror behavior and understanding how demographic factors and regional nuances can shape juror perceptions. Her insights allow us to develop smart trial strategies informed by comprehensive research.
In additional to her consulting work with ThemeVision, Amy is an associate and litigator in the Delaware office of Barnes & Thornburg LLP, where she tackles a diverse range of legal matters including mass torts, commercial disputes, and compliance monitorships. ThemeVision is affiliated with Barnes & Thornburg LLP.
Her career has also included stints as a law firm paralegal and as a drug court manager for the New Castle County Court of Common Pleas, as well as valuable externships with the Office of General Counsel for the District of Columbia Public Schools and the National Center for Youth Law. Amy’s extensive professional background has equipped her with a broad perspective to assist clients in shaping their strategic vision, regardless of the complexity or subject matter of their case.
Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with minors in business and psychology from Tulane University. She earned her J.D. from American University Washington College of Law.