preparation, preparation, preparation.

My Lecturer used to tell me & my classmates that to be the Great Trial Lawyers, you must make thorough preparations.

From my own experience without a proper preparations, you are not ready to go to war and might get killed even before you say a single word. Even if you are safe, it does not mean you are free to go because your biggest enemy ("the honorable") will not let you go unnoticed. It is not a good feeling to be whacked. I'd been in the situation before. Trust me. You can go crazy over this matter.

You are well prepared when you are spared.So, be careful. Read your file. Remember the crucial facts. Know your Judges. Use  the same old formula. "I-L-A-C." Last but not least, Pray to God.