Dr. Barbara Hillmer is an IMS thought leader with more than 30 years of experience in research, consulting, and case management, working with clients to help them achieve their goals. Barbara is particularly skilled at interpreting quantitative and qualitative data to analyze cases from jurors’ perspectives and structuring thematic narratives that appeal to jurors’ sensibilities. In February 2016, she published with her co-author, Dr. Merrie Jo Pitera, a book entitled: Storytelling for the Defense: The Defense Attorney’s Courtroom Guide to Beating Plaintiffs at their Own Game.

Her jury research projects have covered a wide range of matters including product liability, banking, financial services, employment and financial and securities litigation, as well as environmental litigation and toxic torts. Her background in communication and group dynamics allows her to develop pithy case themes and strategies that connect with jurors.

Barbara earned a PhD in communications (focusing on small groups and organizations) and a master’s degree from the University of Kansas. Her undergraduate studies took place at the University of Wisconsin – Madison.