As a lawyer, whether you are representing the Plaintiff or Defendant, dictate the agenda. Drive the case on your terms. Be the first to serve written discovery. Be the first to set depositions. Be the first to subpoena third parties. Be the first to interview witnesses, take statements, secure documents and preserve evidence. As much as possible, be first and set the agenda for the case. Decide the speed, the tone, the tenor, the cadence and feel for the case. Decide on a trial theme and theory early and work the case around them. Grab the wheel and drive the case.