tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69870750635090579782024-03-05T01:21:35.735-08:00COURT TECHNOLOGY and TRIAL PRESENTATIONTopics include Legal Technology, Litigation Support, Trial PresentationTed Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.comBlogger220125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-38233474137639277482023-06-08T17:26:00.001-07:002023-06-08T17:26:54.526-07:00Litigation-Tech and Abraham Lincoln Share Common Interests<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_YTVd2PQ48SbUT5D673VdpQuaJhLzmI8UPlnTTiCC6NdIJVMLPztMPM7_qP1a8alBPDhz0JQbOVd8vUuYihAFOnGic8wESQkUXDCv7mh-u2QTp4Jn4Sv_8sYC_aP8GbIrH0ckG6StPXQAcxWwox83vni6kz24G8trYr2MleDJYD3CFp-0Nmk0Da7/s1280/HonestAbe%20Trial%20Tech.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7_YTVd2PQ48SbUT5D673VdpQuaJhLzmI8UPlnTTiCC6NdIJVMLPztMPM7_qP1a8alBPDhz0JQbOVd8vUuYihAFOnGic8wESQkUXDCv7mh-u2QTp4Jn4Sv_8sYC_aP8GbIrH0ckG6StPXQAcxWwox83vni6kz24G8trYr2MleDJYD3CFp-0Nmk0Da7/s320/HonestAbe%20Trial%20Tech.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image credit: Al Holguin</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><p></p><p><i><b><a href="https://litigationtech.com" target="_blank">Litigation-Tech</a> has been around for many years, helping attorneys navigate their way onto the technology highway in the courtroom. We have a lot of stories to tell, but here's some insight from one of our very first clients.</b></i></p><p><b>Abraham Lincoln was a master of using language to persuade
and inform</b>. He was also a skilled storyteller, and he knew how to use visuals
to illustrate his points. If he were alive today, he would likely be a big fan
of courtroom technology and visuals.</p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">There are many ways that courtroom technology can be used to
enhance the presentation of evidence and arguments. For example, video
depositions can allow witnesses to testify from anywhere in the world, and
interactive exhibits can help jurors understand complex concepts. Lincoln would
have appreciated the ability to use these tools to make his cases more
persuasive.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Visuals can also be a powerful way to communicate with
jurors. For example, charts and graphs can help jurors understand complex data,
and photographs can help them visualize crime scenes or other important
evidence. <b>Lincoln was a master of using visuals in his speeches and writings,
and he would likely have used them to great effect in the courtroom.</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Of course, courtroom technology and visuals are not without
their drawbacks. For example, they can be expensive, and they can be difficult
to use. However, the benefits of using these tools often outweigh the costs.
<b>Lincoln was a skilled attorney who was always looking for ways to improve his
craft. He would have embraced courtroom technology and visuals as a way to make
his cases stronger.</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Here are some specific examples of how Lincoln might have
used courtroom technology and visuals in his cases:<o:p></o:p></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">He
could have used video depositions to get testimony from witnesses who were
unable to travel to the courtroom.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">He
could have used interactive exhibits to help jurors understand complex
concepts, such as the economics of a particular industry or the science of
a particular crime.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">He
could have used charts and graphs to help jurors understand complex data,
such as financial records or population demographics.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">He
could have used photographs to help jurors visualize crime scenes or other
important evidence.<o:p></o:p></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><b>Of course, </b><a href="https://litigationtech.com/zoom.html" style="font-weight: bold;" target="_blank">Zoom</a><b> was not a thing back when we first started, but were he alive today, Honest Abe would be all over the remote and hybrid trial testimony.</b></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal">Lincoln was a master of persuasion, and he would have used
courtroom technology and visuals to his advantage. These tools would have
allowed him to present his cases more effectively and to connect with jurors on
a deeper level. <b>And of course, Abraham Lincoln's go-to service provider would have been <a href="https://litigationtech.com/" target="_blank">Litigation-Tech</a>!</b><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal">(Note: Please do not cite this in court, since some parts may be generated by <a href="https://bard.google.com" target="_blank">Google Bard</a> and <a href="https://discord.com/channels/@litigationtech" target="_blank">MidJourney</a>)</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><br /><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-42876077885734884832023-05-31T08:07:00.000-07:002023-05-31T08:07:36.704-07:00Stay in Your Lane<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFs8h3YR4BrPdgjKIL153ZMmgSYtWEEyBIxN5TyRYsIhiHrll5z8vnErvvCLgS9eeOJpoV8BkPS0sby3vT9I4yry68If2Pbz5JjAhhmMcvs7WkkO5UAel1_00aDrgBPXlZZ15R7KoNsMshuI9p1SX5fW0hGYgzcapjym843Csd9ci9jL66zLejXhn/s908/stay%20in%20your%20lane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="908" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFs8h3YR4BrPdgjKIL153ZMmgSYtWEEyBIxN5TyRYsIhiHrll5z8vnErvvCLgS9eeOJpoV8BkPS0sby3vT9I4yry68If2Pbz5JjAhhmMcvs7WkkO5UAel1_00aDrgBPXlZZ15R7KoNsMshuI9p1SX5fW0hGYgzcapjym843Csd9ci9jL66zLejXhn/s320/stay%20in%20your%20lane.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><p>If you don't know what you're doing, don't do it. It's okay to hire someone else who does know what they are doing, but don't waste your own time, your client's money, and potentially your career trying to do things you know nothing about. There are experts for that.</p><p><a href="http://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_1_competence.html" style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Rule 1.1 in the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">. The original Rule 1.1 states: “</span><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><b>A lawyer shall provide competent representation</b> to a client. Competent representation requires the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness and preparation reasonably necessary for the representation.</i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">” </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #222222; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_1_competence/comment_on_rule_1_1.html" style="color: blue; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Comment 8: Maintaining Competence</a>.<br />“<i>To maintain the requisite knowledge and skill, a lawyer should keep abreast of changes in the law and its practice, <b style="background-color: yellow;">including the benefits and risks associated with relevant technology</b>, engage in continuing study and education and comply with all continuing legal education requirements to which the lawyer is subject.</i>”</span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><b>Q: Why would a lawyer use ChatGPT to cite cases?</b></p><p style="text-align: center;"><b>From ChatGPT:</b></p><p><i><b>A:</b> There could be several reasons why a lawyer might use ChatGPT to cite a case or seek legal information. Here are a few possibilities:</i></p><p><i>1. Research assistance: ChatGPT can provide quick access to legal information and precedents, making it a valuable tool for lawyers conducting legal research. Lawyers may use ChatGPT to find relevant cases, statutes, or legal principles to support their arguments.</i></p><p><i>2. Efficiency and convenience: ChatGPT allows lawyers to obtain information and answers in real-time. Instead of manually searching through extensive legal databases, they can ask specific legal questions to ChatGPT and receive prompt responses, saving time and effort.</i></p><p><i>3. Broad legal knowledge: ChatGPT has been trained on a wide range of legal texts, including case law, statutes, and legal opinions. As a result, it has a vast repository of legal knowledge that can be useful for lawyers when preparing for cases, drafting legal documents, or seeking guidance on complex legal issues.</i></p><p><i>4. Preliminary case assessment: Lawyers may use ChatGPT to get a preliminary understanding of the relevant legal principles and precedents related to a specific case. By inputting key details of the case, they can gauge how existing legal principles may apply, providing a starting point for further analysis.</i></p><p><i>5. General legal guidance: In situations where lawyers need quick answers to legal questions or require general legal guidance, ChatGPT can serve as a useful resource. It can provide insights into legal concepts, procedural matters, or general legal principles.</i></p><p><i><b>"However, it is important to note that while ChatGPT can provide valuable information, it should not be considered a substitute for professional legal advice. Legal professionals should exercise their own judgment, verify the accuracy of the information obtained, and rely on their legal training and expertise when applying it to specific cases."</b></i></p><p>Other than the introduction and question, everything is quoted directly from ChatGPT, including the final paragraph. This is going to be a tough lesson for some.</p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-13793066516742083952023-04-02T10:25:00.002-07:002023-04-03T08:29:19.488-07:00Bard vs. ChatGPT: What are the top 5 areas in legal work that cannot be replaced by AI?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLq3Yl7A0jcT5Csw2fPfnFElo0Fs2m_NItDbC1U9ldnrCizxhGYIpFO-t_OvKQHT6RAkJ6JM95E4X9pB9kIMQnJhWn6jfsZ6N_xQBSex7mNqoyZRGVFU-qvkNey7Jr8owqEwm4fRimH8dnk4znWBE6QA3XseSXLB4HaT3YqH6062bZGtm_gJy8g2J/s4032/20230221_181639198_iOS.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGLq3Yl7A0jcT5Csw2fPfnFElo0Fs2m_NItDbC1U9ldnrCizxhGYIpFO-t_OvKQHT6RAkJ6JM95E4X9pB9kIMQnJhWn6jfsZ6N_xQBSex7mNqoyZRGVFU-qvkNey7Jr8owqEwm4fRimH8dnk4znWBE6QA3XseSXLB4HaT3YqH6062bZGtm_gJy8g2J/s320/20230221_181639198_iOS.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Bard:</u></b></h2><p>Here are the top 5 areas in legal work that cannot be replaced by AI:</p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Legal research. AI can help lawyers with legal research by providing them with access to vast amounts of data and by helping them to identify relevant cases and statutes. However, AI cannot replace the human judgment that is necessary to evaluate the legal significance of this information. Lawyers must be able to understand the context of a case and to apply the law to the facts in order to provide sound legal advice.</li><li>Legal analysis. AI can help lawyers to analyze legal documents and to identify potential issues. However, AI cannot replace the human ability to think critically and to apply legal principles to specific situations. Lawyers must be able to understand the nuances of the law and to apply it to the facts of a case in order to provide sound legal advice.</li><li>Legal writing. AI can help lawyers to draft legal documents, such as contracts and pleadings. However, AI cannot replace the human ability to communicate effectively and to tailor legal documents to the specific needs of a client. Lawyers must be able to understand the needs of their clients and to communicate their legal advice in a clear and concise manner.</li><li>Legal negotiation. AI can help lawyers to prepare for negotiations and to identify potential points of agreement. However, AI cannot replace the human ability to build relationships, to read body language, and to persuade others. Lawyers must be able to understand the needs of their clients and to build relationships with opposing counsel in order to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients.</li><li>Legal advocacy. AI can help lawyers to prepare for trials and to present arguments to a judge or jury. However, AI cannot replace the human ability to connect with an audience and to persuade them to see things your way. Lawyers must be able to understand the facts of a case and to present their arguments in a clear and persuasive manner in order to achieve the best possible outcome for their clients.</li></ol><p></p><p>In conclusion, AI can be a valuable tool for lawyers, but it cannot replace the human judgment and skills that are necessary to provide sound legal advice and representation.</p><p><br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;"><b><u>ChatGPT:</u></b></h2><p>As an AI language model, I cannot provide a definite answer to this question as the capabilities of AI technology are continuously evolving, and new developments could potentially impact the scope of legal work that can be automated. However, here are five areas of legal work that are considered to be challenging to replace with AI technology:</p><p></p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Legal strategy and advice: AI can analyze data and provide insights, but it cannot replace the human ability to provide legal strategy and advice based on experience, intuition, and judgment.</li><li>Negotiation: AI may be able to assist with some aspects of negotiation, such as analyzing contract terms or identifying potential solutions, but it cannot replace the human ability to negotiate, build relationships, and understand the emotions and motivations of the parties involved.</li><li>Complex legal reasoning: AI can analyze large amounts of data and provide insights, but it is challenging to replicate the depth of human legal reasoning, particularly in complex and novel legal cases.</li><li>Legal drafting: While AI can assist with drafting routine legal documents, such as contracts or wills, it cannot replace the human ability to draft complex legal documents, such as legal pleadings, that require a deep understanding of legal principles and persuasive writing.</li><li>Human interaction: The legal profession requires significant human interaction, including client consultations, court appearances, and negotiations, which require social skills and emotional intelligence that AI cannot currently replicate.</li></ol><p></p><p>Again, this is not an exhaustive list, and it is possible that AI technology will evolve to impact these areas of legal work in the future.</p><p><br /></p><p><i><b>NOTE: Thanks to Jeffrey Brandt, Editor of <a href="https://www.PinHawk.com" target="_blank">PinHawk Law Technology Digest</a> for pointing out that it appears that the introductions and conclusions are my own. In fact, they are each written in their entirety by their respective platforms. </b></i></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-88305186150032764992022-07-11T17:44:00.000-07:002022-07-11T17:44:03.308-07:00The Online Courtroom: Hybrid and Remote Trial Considerations -- PART 3 (Look at Me!)<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoc5WYRqLGpTS22-honavqYvHMkjtDU0f7a1-nYjmQBswr8fsghmNW3E8AYxF-WmGD_2FmCiWOdiKmlvLL5P9oD8MjDVGO4UYPKbTJymhAti-l03L0pQTu9Dtyntu5Pa3ns0j0vc8IfHq1W-Kc6Zm-iLpkuGI-XThwB8llO7D5laN8dEgCc0eaBxs/s3088/2022-06-05%2007.53.35%20HairDay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2316" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinoc5WYRqLGpTS22-honavqYvHMkjtDU0f7a1-nYjmQBswr8fsghmNW3E8AYxF-WmGD_2FmCiWOdiKmlvLL5P9oD8MjDVGO4UYPKbTJymhAti-l03L0pQTu9Dtyntu5Pa3ns0j0vc8IfHq1W-Kc6Zm-iLpkuGI-XThwB8llO7D5laN8dEgCc0eaBxs/w300-h400/2022-06-05%2007.53.35%20HairDay.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bad Hair Day, Messy Hotel Room Day</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><br /></div><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">NOTE: This series will cover what happened, how we've adjusted, where we are now, and where we're headed. We will also offer numerous tips, tricks, and best practices for hybrid and remote trials.</i><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>When is the last time you joined a Zoom meeting, only to realize the total disaster you were displaying to everyone?</b> Maybe you're having a bad hair day, messy background day, or even a sun-suddenly-broke-through-the-clouds-and-started-blazing-in-through-the-window-directly-behind-you-as-soon-as-you-turned-on-your-webcam-day. Hey, things happen. <b>But -- many of these little disasters are actually preventable.</b></p><p style="text-align: justify;">You might already know there are settings you can use to allow or prevent your webcam from turning on automatically when you join a meeting. But what about when you're in a rush, or need to join from another device? Every remote meeting platform is different, but since we provide remote and hybrid trial hosting on the HIPAA-Compliant (extra security features) Zoom platform, we'll cover that one here.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">So, let's say you have a Zoom invite, and when you click the link, you're fortunate enough to discover that the meeting has not yet started. Lucky you! You have a brief moment to check your settings before anyone else can watch you fumbling with it all.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpAs569luVyTr0Dnbd5tmOThaLySbdd5JKM-nPdPrXV5pKorDAjbxrbq_IxH6yDQx1uzjrQaUvL9eFcCYvJrmmi41wvcyGg3r1keqagn4rRuSZ9PplwnwsDjM5XlBcHHyOCDrwKkCZszPguRzwdTj0DUOgkRWx6y0rZ9NoT8nqTbO1LG1xMlsIN_M/s497/VideoPreview.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="314" data-original-width="497" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKpAs569luVyTr0Dnbd5tmOThaLySbdd5JKM-nPdPrXV5pKorDAjbxrbq_IxH6yDQx1uzjrQaUvL9eFcCYvJrmmi41wvcyGg3r1keqagn4rRuSZ9PplwnwsDjM5XlBcHHyOCDrwKkCZszPguRzwdTj0DUOgkRWx6y0rZ9NoT8nqTbO1LG1xMlsIN_M/w400-h253/VideoPreview.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Oh no! You can only check your computer audio! But what about the video settings? Although clicking on the above "Test Computer Audio" button will open to the audio settings, once you get there, you can also choose the video settings. <b>Ideally, you should do all of these pre-checks before jumping out there naked in front of the world, but if you forget, at least now you'll have time to grab a shirt.</b><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22PPu_wHeugbPo1vkoPIW2zmBkc2uFV0tcFI1geyyXa4oa4U-6FEIDC9e9oqojT7UIYWQ-Qtwbuy7Rpajr2a29K_8AEeKEoFM7c3XW3ilur9H3bcJ-EXabI6nOcFa1bDYxlCWevExkjZHPQ80Ey4jvwIniRCXTWRztPe8sQj2K3wGPJtigmNzDx6F/s441/VideoPreview2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="441" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi22PPu_wHeugbPo1vkoPIW2zmBkc2uFV0tcFI1geyyXa4oa4U-6FEIDC9e9oqojT7UIYWQ-Qtwbuy7Rpajr2a29K_8AEeKEoFM7c3XW3ilur9H3bcJ-EXabI6nOcFa1bDYxlCWevExkjZHPQ80Ey4jvwIniRCXTWRztPe8sQj2K3wGPJtigmNzDx6F/w400-h266/VideoPreview2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Now if you're not so lucky as to arrive early to the party, you can still preview your image before allowing everyone else to see. Hopefully, when you first join, your webcam will default to "off." If not, you can quickly hit the "Stop Video" button, which will be right where the "Start Video" button is shown above, both of which are located in the lower left corner with a laptop. This is in the upper right corner if you're on an iPad. "Choose Virtual Background" is one more quick and easy way to get to your video settings, without turning your webcam on outside of your own little preview.<br /><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWRe7vAVsWmLhRvUnv-MUO3a9lU5bVztCerkMUwCDiPQ19VWqQdNtBgkjQsosO6Xwp4g-M6TDktvRKAv28gtFAqv49mpkbOIQIrg8JdR9WkSd1IFEVEOgmfuQLVtk2YhKcuM3hCeVDMGr3wQoFjojdpiejjLCjkNTJspVqgkrLt2-CQPoRPASHSC2/s793/VideoPreview3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="793" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEWRe7vAVsWmLhRvUnv-MUO3a9lU5bVztCerkMUwCDiPQ19VWqQdNtBgkjQsosO6Xwp4g-M6TDktvRKAv28gtFAqv49mpkbOIQIrg8JdR9WkSd1IFEVEOgmfuQLVtk2YhKcuM3hCeVDMGr3wQoFjojdpiejjLCjkNTJspVqgkrLt2-CQPoRPASHSC2/w400-h330/VideoPreview3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Select the "Background & Effects" tab and you will then see a preview of what you will look like with or without a selected background, or you may choose "None." The good news with this is that you're the only one who gets to see how you're going to look, until you actually hit the "Start Video" button.</div><div><br /></div><div><b><i>PRO TIP 1: Do NOT use "Mirror my Video." Although it may seem more natural to you, as if you're looking in a mirror, other viewers will see it that way as well. Anything showing text, or maybe something as mundane as a clock will become the primary focal point of everyone else in the meeting. Don't use it. Just don't.</i></b></div><div><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div><b><i>PRO TIP 2: PLEASE DO NOT USE THE ZOOM-INCLUDED BACKGROUNDS. It was okay two years ago when we were all learning, but we are (or at least we in the legal profession definitely should be) well beyond this.<br /></i></b><p style="text-align: justify;">For those who would like to try all of this <i style="font-weight: bold;">before</i> your next Zoom appearance, feel free to try the link below, which we normally include in our Zoom meeting invites. You can download and update to the current version (yes, you really should do that) or just run a test meeting to see it all in action and make sure you're ready to go online.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;">IMPORTANT: We are hosting on the HIPAA-Compliant Zoom Platform, with enhanced encryption and security features.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;">1. Update to the current version of Zoom and log in with your FIRST and LAST NAME: <a href="https://www.litigationtech.zoom.us/download" target="_blank">https://www.litigationtech.zoom.us/download</a> </span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;"><br /></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: #fcff01;">2. Test your connection, camera, microphone, speakers. Check your lighting, and background: <a href="https://www.litigationtech.zoom.us/test" target="_blank">https://www.litigationtech.zoom.us/test</a></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;">For additional information on this and related topics, make sure to read<a href="https://www.americanbar.org/products/inv/book/421699013/" style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><i><b> "The Online Courtroom."</b></i></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow us on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/litigation-tech/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/litigation-tech/</a></div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-10115906309957550602022-07-03T12:32:00.002-07:002022-07-11T17:42:39.809-07:00The Online Courtroom: Hybrid and Remote Trial Considerations -- PART 2 (Lights, ___, Action)<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeKhiYL5ZPt8AsMSSCIO76Xf17JLc-iTtKVe1LFoGQEL9NvHN32jL5WDDTXaJ0_wwn7xns7ksDU-Za7XsJEnnAvwCJpsLJKh681_Ri6pAmPZXhZpVUM8RYTKaFcGLCxJWI3AUex7UcmJ9ohqQq8X5s5LWwmCgP0pzVNKvtTT-jJlkR5PfExpgnw5xF/s4032/IMG_3922.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeKhiYL5ZPt8AsMSSCIO76Xf17JLc-iTtKVe1LFoGQEL9NvHN32jL5WDDTXaJ0_wwn7xns7ksDU-Za7XsJEnnAvwCJpsLJKh681_Ri6pAmPZXhZpVUM8RYTKaFcGLCxJWI3AUex7UcmJ9ohqQq8X5s5LWwmCgP0pzVNKvtTT-jJlkR5PfExpgnw5xF/w400-h300/IMG_3922.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;">NOTE: This series will cover what happened, how we've adjusted, where we are now, and where we're headed. We will also offer numerous tips, tricks, and best practices for hybrid and remote trials.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 13.2px;"><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><u>Cameras</u></i></b> are the only new major component needed to enable hybrid trials, which have quickly become the most common format. With skyrocketing travel costs, it makes economic sense to have a witness appear remotely from another part of the country -- or even from another country. Even a daily commute can be avoided by many members of a trial team, allowing those back at the war room to watch everything as it is happening in the courtroom.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As we discussed during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic (see <a href="https://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2021/07/cameras-in-courtroom.html" style="text-align: left;" target="_blank">Cameras in the Courtroom</a>), hybrid trials are here to stay. Although many have struggled to make it work, we can and must attempt to develop successful techniques and best practices. Unfortunately, while everyone is now a Zoom expert, not everyone is actually doing much to replicate or enhance the courtroom trial experience.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In order to do so properly, it is not as simple as it might appear. Most attorneys have taken plenty of remote depositions by now, and most seem to actually prefer them over driving an hour or more, just to spend the day in some downtown law firm or court reporter's conference room. Court reporting agencies have made it even more convenient by developing exhibit sharing applications and mastering the Zoom platform. All you need to do is log on with your laptop, access your online exhibits, and tear into that deponent.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Trials are a little different than a deposition. And, there is still a strong desire to do trials in person, or at least partially. We've all seen a Zoom screen filled with images of so many people that it's difficult to even tell who's speaking. While that might be fine for a casual online get-together, or even a business meeting, it is not suitable for trial. In trial, everyone needs to remain focused on the witness, while also adding room for the judge and counsel. Fortunately, we have a solution for that -- dedicated Zoom cameras and laptops for the courtroom ("Zoom Kit"). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Best Practice Tip: A typical setup will have just two cameras in the courtroom</i></b> -- one focused on the witness and the Court, and another focused on counsel. This arrangement requires high-end remote-controlled cameras that will allow us to pan (left-to-right), tilt (up and down) and zoom in or out ("PTZ" webcams). Although you might be able to get by with simple non-PTZ webcams, this basic layout is recommended, and will require at least two dedicated Zoom laptops. As shown in the photo above, now viewers have only two views to concentrate on, or adding a third, if a remote witness is testifying. Although we have seen it happen, having a dozen laptop webcam views of individuals is not recommended as a best practice in trial. This technique will work with most any remote platform, including Zoom, MS Teams, WebEx, BlueJeans, etc. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Different courts have different platforms available, however, we've found that when parties are willing to stipulate to a third-party hosting and handling all the technology for the trial, judges are willing and even supportive of allowing someone else take that responsibility off their plate.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For additional information on this and related topics, make sure to read<a href="https://www.americanbar.org/products/inv/book/421699013/" style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank"><i><b> "The Online Courtroom."</b></i></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow us on LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/litigation-tech/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/company/litigation-tech/</a></div><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-10488920218844672212022-06-27T18:30:00.000-07:002022-06-27T18:30:22.984-07:00The Online Courtroom: Hybrid and Remote Trial Considerations -- PART 1<p style="text-align: justify;"> <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu49xFFaxr4wyBX9Bj3S1M16rW3brXGnega0-0YJFO6GwzkxP1O7_N7kdTZoNqjzcQRXY9E7ebVL8IEChBsw7oAb97p7J7isgmMP_4BZ7WKFKOlIPoR5vgy-mJFZb7_M6AuzQFOAyiR3A1C9FoSpiJxxAhR35-prOMQdGC5aUqrwLjBbd0LlKT3mV0/s601/TheOnlineCourtroomProject%20BOOK%20COVER.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="420" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu49xFFaxr4wyBX9Bj3S1M16rW3brXGnega0-0YJFO6GwzkxP1O7_N7kdTZoNqjzcQRXY9E7ebVL8IEChBsw7oAb97p7J7isgmMP_4BZ7WKFKOlIPoR5vgy-mJFZb7_M6AuzQFOAyiR3A1C9FoSpiJxxAhR35-prOMQdGC5aUqrwLjBbd0LlKT3mV0/s320/TheOnlineCourtroomProject%20BOOK%20COVER.png" width="224" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.americanbar.org/products/inv/book/421699013/" target="_blank"><i><b>Order "The Online Courtroom"</b></i></a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>NOTE: This series will cover what happened, how we've adjusted, where we are now, and where we're headed. We will also offer numerous tips, tricks, and best practices for hybrid and remote trials. </i></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Looking back at our trial calendar, I added a note on March 9, 2020: <b>COVID-19 BUSINESS STOP</b>. I was at home in Southern California's South Bay (I also have a home office in the East Bay Area in Northern California), and the next important note I see is on March 27, 2020: <b>BEACHES AND PIER CLOSED</b>. Now, it's certainly a big deal when all the courtroom doors were locked shut, since our primary service offerings require us to be inside a courtroom. It's an even bigger deal when you cannot not work, but neither can you play!</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We went from a busy and thriving trial support service provider with multiple trials calendared every month, to zero in the blink of an eye. It was quite a system-shock, to say the least. My case work calendar shows almost no billable work besides a few depositions until our first COVID-era trial in L.A. on a high-profile family law case, in which we were one of the first trials getting back into the courtroom in a nearly empty courthouse. It was a hybrid trial - which was a very rare thing at the time.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">With the lack of billable time or trials to support, my calendar is littered with lots of Webinars, CLE programs, and several meetings and a bold entry on June 26-27, <b><a href="https://www.onlinecourtroom.org/demonstrationtrial" target="_blank">OCP Mock Trial</a></b>. I'll go into more detail on that later.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">I'm going to be sharing a lot of my personal experiences in this series, in addition, of course, to a bunch of technical tips and suggestions, many of which we've included in the first book to fully cover the topic from many perspectives, <a href="https://www.americanbar.org/products/inv/book/421699013/" style="text-align: center;" target="_blank"><i><b>"The Online Courtroom."</b></i></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">I hope you'll follow along and enjoy it!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Quick Tip #1 -- Wi-Fi</b></i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i>Most courtrooms offer some level of public Wi-Fi access, and most court staff in these same courtrooms will tell you that it is unreliable, unpredictable, and not recommended for use in hybrid or remote trials. An industrial-strength hotspot with an unlimited plan (never throttled due to excess data usage) is recommended. Our tool of choice is the <a href="https://5gstore.com/product/6817_pepwave_max_br1_mini_lte_advanced.html" target="_blank">Pepwave Max BR1 Mini LTE Advanced</a>, although there are several others available. I should also note that if you are hosting and running your trial over Zoom, it can consume 10GB or more per day, which is enough to kill most "normal" data plans.</i></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-60537332616984282982021-07-20T09:37:00.001-07:002021-07-20T14:24:19.385-07:00Cameras in the Courtroom<p style="text-align: justify;">Now that the courts are beginning to get back to business, will we continue to have remote witnesses and juries? That's a great question, and we'd have a completely different answer had it not been for COVID-19. What we've just experienced is one of the fastest implementations of technology by the legal professions ever.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgGpPUChNP8wAFsFOVbTUQjuwtB4SECPy3DKUBIoB-7yGelX5A57YFbIkzxu9AvH3FC7YvcIwf2ITtyhdkuL98tlOHwpXwKCbp6-97LQXRbmkxighgiM9DFhNJ8Cpnu4A5pzKBnaHnso/s2048/2021-07-16+14.44.53.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOgGpPUChNP8wAFsFOVbTUQjuwtB4SECPy3DKUBIoB-7yGelX5A57YFbIkzxu9AvH3FC7YvcIwf2ITtyhdkuL98tlOHwpXwKCbp6-97LQXRbmkxighgiM9DFhNJ8Cpnu4A5pzKBnaHnso/s320/2021-07-16+14.44.53.jpg" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;">Technology, when used properly, can make you more effective and efficient in trial. It used to be a major strategic consideration whether to use TrialDirector and risk appearing as though you were spending too much money, or had very deep pockets as a defendant. Now, there is no justification for such an argument, as jurors clearly understand where the big bucks are being spent -- and it's not on a few PowerPoint slides. They might not understand the difference between slides and trial presentation software, but jurors do appreciate visuals.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">So back to our question. The short and simple answer is yes and no. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yes, we will continue to utilize remote appearances, especially in hearings, bench trials, and for cost-savings and convenience when expert witnesses are required to travel cross-country and spend a week or so in a nice hotel. Clients simply can't justify that. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">U.S. District Judge Jed S. Rakoff of the Southern District of New York has said, “They will continue, particularly when there are out-of-town lawyers who don’t want to spend two days for one hour in court on a motion that they have to argue, the judges will continue to allow, and even encourage, Zoom conferences.” (See <a href="https://www.law.com/newyorklawjournal/2021/07/14/here-to-stay-expect-remote-hearings-to-become-post-pandemic-fixture-rakoff-says/" target="_blank">Here to Stay: Expect Remote Hearings to Become Post-Pandemic Fixture, Panelists Say</a>, New York Law Journal)</p><p style="text-align: justify;">No, it is not at all likely that anyone wants to have jurors appearing remotely, although recent studies have shown that the majority of potential jurors would prefer to serve remotely. Further, remote service options actually increase the diversity and size of the pool. At the very least, jurors should be able to handle all the preliminary duties remotely, including initial reporting, detailed questionnaires and even voir dire. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">"It has been argued that online jury panels cannot be as diverse as a normal panel given the technology that a prospective juror would need to participate in an online trial. While we certainly experienced technology issues with a few of our prospective jurors, one must also consider the ease with which one can report for jury service. Rather than have to drive, take a bus, get a ride or otherwise find a way to travel to a central courthouse location, prospective jurors can participate as citizens from the comforts of their homes. Or, if they don’t have the proper technology, they can participate from the comforts of their local library. No system will be perfect for everyone. But, given the many people who have limited transportation options or disabilities that prevent mobility, online trials may, in fact, increase diversity and participation in our jury system." (See <a href="https://www.onlinecourtroom.org/demonstration-report" target="_blank">Online Courtroom Project Demonstration Trial</a>)</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Finally, many courts have purchased and installed remote video equipment. It isn't likely to be pushed back into the corner and never used again. </p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-85319867303621821282021-06-28T15:25:00.001-07:002021-06-28T15:25:32.345-07:00Something Old, Something New<h3 style="text-align: justify;">Trials. Exhibits. In Person. Remote. Hybrid.</h3><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAo5Yzt2KXvpglMMuLxmlTBvGYBc2DdWelBdcZrZ56Tt28he8vCi3YXLhKPan1oHvWg4XnuTuWF-f5A2HWKmeaB2pfKPB99SoQIQXiYSjR_thqJKfm8WF4qQTBio8RLeut4D7kriTHCY/s899/20210225+Zoom+Counsel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="899" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEAo5Yzt2KXvpglMMuLxmlTBvGYBc2DdWelBdcZrZ56Tt28he8vCi3YXLhKPan1oHvWg4XnuTuWF-f5A2HWKmeaB2pfKPB99SoQIQXiYSjR_thqJKfm8WF4qQTBio8RLeut4D7kriTHCY/w400-h223/20210225+Zoom+Counsel.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We have many options, now that we're slowly climbing our way out of a global pandemic. Pre-COVID, we had only a few common options. During the first part of COVID, we literally had none. Rather quickly, the lights began to turn on again, even if most of those were monitors glowing, as opposed to courtroom lights. </p><p style="text-align: justify;">Now most of us have become proficient in online trials, arbitrations and depos. It took a pandemic to implement technology that has already been available for years. While there are both benefits and drawbacks to remote technology, it is here to stay -- maybe not in all cases, but certainly for many.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Jury Pool</b></i> - This was one of the first challenges to the notion of remote trials. Jurors without adequate internet access would be excluded. While this is true, jurors with inadequate internet will also be even more likely to have concerns with transportation and the ability to spend one or more days away from home. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Judging Credibility</b></i> - Another key talking point for many opposed to remote trials is the ability to "read" a witness. While I would agree that is easier to interpret facial expressions and other gestures when standing at a conversational distance to an unmasked person, this is not the case when you add 30-40 feet of distance between individuals, and then add masks. In fact, it is far easier to see an individual's facial expressions via video display when they are unmasked and appearing with a "typical" webcam profile view distance.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Ability to Effectively Communicate</b></i> - Although this is perhaps the strongest argument made by those who would insist that cases cannot be tried remotely, the mere fact that one attorney can tower over another in stature and volume in a courtroom does not necessarily add to the evidence. One interesting (and maybe good) observation has been that everyone appears about the same size, and at about the same volume level when appearing remotely. The playing field has been leveled.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">We will be looking at putting it all together in upcoming posts.</p><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-1437562494498280922020-03-29T11:39:00.001-07:002020-03-29T11:39:25.183-07:00UpdateI hope you've enjoyed reading some of the over 200 articles here in this blog. I've really enjoyed writing and sharing. Don't forget you can use the search tool and blog archives here for topics that you may be interested in.<br />
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<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-no-proof: yes;">Los Angeles</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-no-proof: yes;">◾</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-no-proof: yes;">San Francisco</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-no-proof: yes;">◾</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-no-proof: yes;">San Diego</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-no-proof: yes;">◾</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-no-proof: yes;">Orange County</span><span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji",sans-serif; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Emoji"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-no-proof: yes;">◾</span><span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-no-proof: yes;">Silicon Valley</span><span style="color: black; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-no-proof: yes;"></span><br />
<b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-26320178461426841992018-08-26T14:58:00.001-07:002018-08-26T17:29:22.082-07:00Juror Explains Voir Dire Do's and Dont's<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBt_rXjW5CJ2eWutEbGGKtdPmUIqvaWhCOIW_cIfx1S0BIHeTc71LoUTHXnvmkOTjBMQUur08Q8he_sX9QDiZ6GrcyfoMKd7vsNrqjr1jmNvwMdHUVLg-cx-nSTAG1lNfQOuBvvX8L0TA/s1600/2018-08-07+18.03.35.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBt_rXjW5CJ2eWutEbGGKtdPmUIqvaWhCOIW_cIfx1S0BIHeTc71LoUTHXnvmkOTjBMQUur08Q8he_sX9QDiZ6GrcyfoMKd7vsNrqjr1jmNvwMdHUVLg-cx-nSTAG1lNfQOuBvvX8L0TA/s320/2018-08-07+18.03.35.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">During Voir Dire, jurors will be watching you like a hawk. <i>photo © Ted Brooks</i></td></tr>
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If you do jury trials, you're already familiar with the voir dire process and know how important it can be to your case. You can have a jury consultant assist with this process, or you might prefer to handle it on your own, but in either scenario it is the attorney who will be speaking with the jurors. While you might be chomping at the bit to get this trial started, the fact is that it has already begun. <b><i>Don't ever take voir dire lightly - it is a critical piece in the litigation process</i>.</b> </div>
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I will note here that although many prospective jurors will look for any way to get out of being selected (pre-paid, non-refundable vacations seems to work pretty well), once they've been nailed, they take pride in ownership and will do their best to make sure the right verdict is delivered. That's why our system works, and I am proud to be a part of it.</div>
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While I'm not going to offer any thoughts on how you should handle voir dire itself, I will share some other things you may want to consider. Now here are a few more do's and don'ts I've put together, based on my experience in hundreds of jury trials, and more importantly, my own recent experience and observations as a prospective juror. (<i>It was a criminal case and I was dismissed by the Prosecutor. Although I stated in court and truly believe that I could be a fair and impartial juror, I can appreciate the concern of having someone with my experience and background sitting on the jury. I will admit that I had mixed feeling about serving, but would have gladly done so if selected.</i>)</div>
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<b><i><u>Do Dress Appropriately</u></i></b></div>
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Hey counselor, I'm guessing that at 40-50 years old, this must not be your first rodeo, but has anyone ever explained to you how to tie a damn tie? True story: 2 out of the 3 defense attorneys clearly bypassed the mirror when they got dressed. One of them actually had the wrong end of his tie longer than the top part you're supposed to see, so the thin part was around his belt line, the wider part up a few inches higher. It just looked weird. The other, who was tall, had a tie that was just too short (at 6'3" this is a potential problem I also have to watch out for). He could have retied it to make the main part longer so it didn't end about midway on his stomach. I mean seriously, folks. You are professionals -- please act and dress like it.</div>
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I think the key takeaway here is the old "first impression" thing, and this is that opportunity. Make sure everything is in place and that you have the look of the professional that you are.</div>
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<b><i><u>Do Make Eye Contact</u></i></b></div>
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If you're speaking to the group, move along from juror to juror with your eyes, and try not to miss anyone. Also, try not to focus excessively on anyone. Everyone wants to feel as though they are a part of the process, and not being ignored. When you are addressing an individual juror, maintain eye contact when speaking, and when listening to their response. It can appear very offensive when counsel is moving on while the juror is still speaking. Oh, and please don't EVER wink.</div>
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<b><i><u>Do Remember That This Is Not Their Profession</u></i></b></div>
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Most everyone in the courtroom besides jurors and the parties are paid to be there - this is your profession - not theirs. You chose to do this, your jurors did not. Most attorneys I've watched in voir dire, Opening Statements and Closing Arguments are very careful to note the fact that their service is appreciated, and how critical it is to our legal system. With that, their effort and time should be respected, and anything you can do to maintain an efficient process will be appreciated. I will add that in post-verdict jury surveys I've been involved in, <b>jurors have consistently stated their appreciation when we've used technology to present the evidence</b> - especially when opposing did not. They can easily see how effective and efficient it is, compared to just using hard copy documents. </div>
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<b><i><u>Don't Ask Creepy Questions</u></i></b></div>
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I would suggest working from a scripted list of questions, rather than just "winging it" when speaking with your prospective jurors. I'm sure we can all think of things we've heard or asked that just aren't appropriate to discuss in front of a room full of strangers. I'm not going to offer any examples other than one defense attorney kept stating random hypothetical situations that might happen during trial or deliberations, and then asking everyone to raise their hands and promise they would do nor not do such and such. Seriously? I can't speak for anyone else, but that made me feel very uncomfortable. I am there, the entire pool were all sworn in since it was a criminal matter, and that should do it. Even if I do raise my hand to "promise," I do not see that as any sort of legitimate oath, and I'm not agreeing to be "on your side." I suspect others felt the same. If anyone had not "agreed," they would certainly risk being called out and asked why. So don't bother.</div>
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<b><i><u>Don't Enter My Personal Space</u></i></b></div>
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Feel free to use the lectern or podium, and even to walk around a bit -- but please stay out of my face. Don't assume someone likes you just because they smile at you. They may or may not want to like you, but if you invade their space, they won't appreciate it. I will say that it's really all about the evidence, but that an offensive attorney certainly won't help their cause, and might even make a juror less receptive to your message.</div>
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<b><i><u>Don't Waste My Time With Repetitive Questions</u></i></b></div>
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One thing I've seen far too often is asking every juror the same questions. Mix it up a bit, and try doing a group poll (ask to raise hands) for the "easy" ones, then focusing on the outliers. The Court will often instruct counsel to move it along if they see too much of this anyway, but don't think the jurors are not smart enough to notice.</div>
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<b><i><u>Extra Credit:</u></i></b></div>
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What is the correct pronunciation of voir dire? Well, they are French words, literally meaning "To speak the truth," which could be considered reasonably influential. So maybe something along the lines of <i>vwah (or vwar) deer. </i>On the other hand, if we are to phonetically "sound it out" in plain English, we might end up with something close to <i>vore dyer. </i>Believe me - after many years and many trials, I have heard both of these and everything else in between. However, I have also learned the correct way to pronounce it, regardless of your geographical location -- although I can't recall exactly where I heard this explained. In any event, <b>the correct way to pronounce voir dire in any courtroom anywhere</b>,<b> is to pronounce it the same way as the judge.</b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2MOE-lnzXFXd9rvCkoAw8dCwHmztsMrFl3UfgE5DLDlZ3lFch31qC4zKf8mTTm-fV8fIazybZ9CDRmfUJw_bvdxe0kKJ3-iUJkV-zua8uy4SKv2YRmcIBVPAHOAsGSF0ZOwCVLT4YQY/s1600/2018-04-03+19.11.00.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx2MOE-lnzXFXd9rvCkoAw8dCwHmztsMrFl3UfgE5DLDlZ3lFch31qC4zKf8mTTm-fV8fIazybZ9CDRmfUJw_bvdxe0kKJ3-iUJkV-zua8uy4SKv2YRmcIBVPAHOAsGSF0ZOwCVLT4YQY/s320/2018-04-03+19.11.00.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Summer is winding down, and I just felt like sharing a totally irrelevant and gratuitous photo. <i style="font-size: 12.8px;">photo © Ted Brooks</i></td></tr>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-55998450769863719302018-07-05T16:11:00.000-07:002018-07-05T16:21:24.064-07:00TrialDirector 360<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCX4n-P6Jjz0AUs7ERK6wkEbdHmUaIl3ForDssduYG1rDGT-D9yd5hOemQmBxRH6m9mNdmlrRHtikbcBQSRVQyCB882m92yMPley18lOB8OAMMFiXo3MP65Tak7qDqX6qiiUGOwoUDHQ/s1600/LaunchSplash.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="583" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCX4n-P6Jjz0AUs7ERK6wkEbdHmUaIl3ForDssduYG1rDGT-D9yd5hOemQmBxRH6m9mNdmlrRHtikbcBQSRVQyCB882m92yMPley18lOB8OAMMFiXo3MP65Tak7qDqX6qiiUGOwoUDHQ/s200/LaunchSplash.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TrialDirector 360</td></tr>
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Although it hasn't yet been officially released yet, here are a few initial thoughts on the new <a href="https://iprotech.com/software/trial-director-360/" target="_blank">TrialDirector 360</a>, some of which are from my LinkedIn post. If you'd like to follow along, feel free to connect and follow my profile: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-brooks-778190/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/ted-brooks-778190/</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDq6RtgykpAU9V4B5i-b56NKsBXpjLrLV7tVuE7CpoeN8mgf_OK8UVZbOpFq62qNuMbtqs2KhsWsB5W82eKdUGzp1vl5TN1PZ5bk0Jw30X7RnCgQSYJQJ_pkK7MvZ-Xbr2VHaoZQmkOU/s1600/Install+01.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="701" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZDq6RtgykpAU9V4B5i-b56NKsBXpjLrLV7tVuE7CpoeN8mgf_OK8UVZbOpFq62qNuMbtqs2KhsWsB5W82eKdUGzp1vl5TN1PZ5bk0Jw30X7RnCgQSYJQJ_pkK7MvZ-Xbr2VHaoZQmkOU/s320/Install+01.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You will need to set up an Ipro 360 account, which will manage your Ipro software and will eventually serve as another method of creating and working with your cases. Parts of this, along with some features in TD360 are still being finalized. This initial review is on a Beta website, and the locally installed version is 1.0.0.0.</div>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHzgLdZ7YNPswHpLnjf6q1YYvFD9qIyR6hNqHiDv6L3kVFKn3eKIF2KcilYTzyNszP40pPUw2e-pO4rpTX_ey70qFV4rvcNXpXv4A3WcQZFSJr-AOq-4UzPLAeq6p3KjTKjGxPUYHNJY/s1600/Install+02.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="702" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSHzgLdZ7YNPswHpLnjf6q1YYvFD9qIyR6hNqHiDv6L3kVFKn3eKIF2KcilYTzyNszP40pPUw2e-pO4rpTX_ey70qFV4rvcNXpXv4A3WcQZFSJr-AOq-4UzPLAeq6p3KjTKjGxPUYHNJY/s320/Install+02.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Once you're all registered, you can then download the software. This is the set for TrialDirector 360.</div>
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From <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6420109042617847808/" target="_blank">LinkedIn Post on TrialDirector 360</a>:</div>
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TrialDirector 360 is looking pretty good so far. Regardless of which software you're planning on using in the next few years, you're going to have to learn a few new tricks if you want to stay in business. While the Presentation mode is familiar, you'll want to spend some time learning to navigate the new database. There are still a number of features and things yet to be finalized, although what I've seen so far (in version 1.0.0.0) looks solid. #trialdirector #ipro #TD360 #TrialDirector360</div>
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One major change/improvement is the way TD360 handles PDF files. In previous versions you could set document breaks only with TIFFs, and not PDFs. TD360 converts the PDFs to .png format, allowing you to add/remove/reorder/rename individual pages. The converted file size may be larger than the original, which is also imported to the file set. One example is a PDF of 109KB and the .png converted at 1.89MB. You will want to make sure to change your case data default location (see image) to somewhere with enough capacity, especially if you're running a small SSD for your applications. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Default file path and convert MPEG-2 option (click to enlarge)</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Document Resequence dialog allows you to change Doc ID, Exhibit numbers, etc., addressing the need for an easier way to set up Bates numbering. For those familiar with scanning apps, this will totally make sense.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Video Clip Editing - remove lines and redact text (click to enlarge)</td></tr>
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You can't import a batch of synced video files, at least not yet. They need to be imported one-at-a-time.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVpsIzKbC9hvSkO9CgKujdcKgluqZphZBcjQwtdl8JX8Sc3_LqA6QP1H9nq7lBOdvbtdCypRmWVM5AlM1d5dRxEIB_cK5tqBKhuVkZqZ1fTY_TnG4VO0vf7HMQ7oLLtd9_p43xCrDJIhY/s1600/One+transript+only+-+slow.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="152" data-original-width="373" height="130" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVpsIzKbC9hvSkO9CgKujdcKgluqZphZBcjQwtdl8JX8Sc3_LqA6QP1H9nq7lBOdvbtdCypRmWVM5AlM1d5dRxEIB_cK5tqBKhuVkZqZ1fTY_TnG4VO0vf7HMQ7oLLtd9_p43xCrDJIhY/s320/One+transript+only+-+slow.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here are a couple questions and answers that have already come up.</div>
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Q: Any easier way to batch fill Bates #s? It would be great if TD would automatically populate bates numbers similar to the way it handles exhibit numbers. Then the user could just clean up and correct any bates #s that are not sequential. </div>
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A: Depending on which field you want to use for your Bates numbers, you can now select groups of exhibits and rename Doc ID, or you can still work with the Exhibit fields as your Bates.</div>
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Q: On clip export, did they change the export options? Mainly, more detailed MPEG settings and better audio? </div>
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A: Actually, there are 3 video export flavors of MP4 on the clip export. Standard iPad is smallest file size (352x240), then MPEG 4 (352x240) and Hi-res iPad (1920x1080). Audio exports to MP3.</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-85839219355667139492018-02-17T11:55:00.000-08:002018-02-17T21:57:51.736-08:00Litigation Statistics: Settle or Fight?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Although the overall percentage of cases filed actually going
to trial remains predictably low (around 2-3%, depending on where you’re
getting your data, the period covered, and type of case), this year has started
off (for us, anyway) with a trend we’ve seen before during times of economic growth.
I’m not going to get all analytical here, but it is noteworthy to those involved
in litigation and related services.<o:p></o:p></div>
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At just over halfway through February, we’ve had twenty
cases on our 2018 trial calendar, and nine have settled. Some of these have not
yet started trial, but that is a 45% settlement rate, or 55% of our cases have
gone or appear to be going to trial.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Compared to recent years where we have seen a lower volume
but higher “run” rate (around 80% in 2017), this seems to indicate that the use
of technology-driven litigation support services (e.g., trial presentation) have become the desired
or default method of presenting evidence. In other words, more trial teams are
bringing in qualified assistance earlier in the litigation, and not waiting
until the last minute, when all efforts at settlement or resolution have been
completely exhausted. I see this as a win for everyone – the trial team gets
some assistance and direction early on, the client gets the benefit of
additional preparation, and of course, the service provider benefits as well. <b>Trials
are not won by intentionally limiting preparation.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Although this is certainly not a scientific study, I see our
little sampling as very encouraging and beneficial for everyone involved in
litigation – from the Plaintiff to the Expert Witness, attorneys and jurors.
Even the Court benefits when technology is properly utilized in trial,
shortening the length of a matter significantly.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I’ve heard many excuses over the years attempting to justify
not using technology (see <a href="https://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/07/why-you-should-not-use-technology-in.html">Why
You Should NOT Use Technology in Your Trial</a>), and we’ve all seen how
technology can reshape an entire industry (e.g., Uber, Lyft and Taxi Cabs).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i>Whether you hope to settle or try your case, it is always
advisable to plan for the best, and prepare for the worst.</i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-55370808031983075152018-01-01T18:55:00.001-08:002018-01-04T10:34:18.174-08:002018 - Something Old, Something New<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KpJxfEwqZhwo9-uYiwPWRorkdO_UkZyfQDYIRFYvMuZ75j-pYxEkgzcGRY2DIedyoGa9f0Dh3Y2_9LMMBSVpQgOMPnXyfD9ce7KVi_7B22C-R6KYNU4iFPH_jnR1PjpbfSymtiHrpL4/s1600/2017-12-30+19.40.55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KpJxfEwqZhwo9-uYiwPWRorkdO_UkZyfQDYIRFYvMuZ75j-pYxEkgzcGRY2DIedyoGa9f0Dh3Y2_9LMMBSVpQgOMPnXyfD9ce7KVi_7B22C-R6KYNU4iFPH_jnR1PjpbfSymtiHrpL4/s320/2017-12-30+19.40.55.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Y2K with Brobeck (scary times) </td></tr>
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Beginning with my time in-house at Brobeck (1998-2002), I have enjoyed writing about Legal Technology for many publications. Many reprints were available on earlier versions of the <a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/" target="_blank">Litigation-Tech</a> website. After some updates and upgrades over the years, these had become "orphaned," meaning they were still available online, but could only be found by running a specific web search. As a Holiday project, I decided to set them up in an archive, so they would be available once again. Although these articles are somewhat "dated," many of them are still surprisingly relevant. The archive is intended to preserve these older articles, which were written prior to the <a href="https://trial-technology.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Court Technology and Trial Presentation</a> blog, which I started writing in 2009. Things are different for writers now, in that you can click, and publish. Back in the day, you'd write, submit to the publication editor, get change-requests, edit and submit updated version(s), and then wait for several weeks to finally see it arrive in print. I still have a big bunch of published print-media articles in my bookcase. It's hard to say which is more enjoyable from the author's perspective, although quick edits or changes are easy online - not so much when you were limited to reading it on paper. With that introduction, here are links to the archive, with a few notes on what you can find at each one. I truly hope you appreciate it.<br />
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---Ted Brooks<br />
<br />
But first, here is the most-popular article of 2017:<br />
<h3 class="post-title entry-title" itemprop="name" style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: 22px; font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0.75em 0px 0px; position: relative; text-align: start;">
<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2017/12/ten-powerpoint-tips-for-courtroom.html" target="_blank">Ten PowerPoint Tips for the Courtroom</a></h3>
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<b>The Archive</b><br />
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/publications.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive Contents</b></a> - This is sort of a directory, although not all-inclusive. Many links are here with brief descriptions.</div>
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive 1</b></a> - Several complete articles, including the following:<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles.shtml#17" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Not Beyond a Reasonable Doubt, By John Bringardner - Article for: Law Technology News</a></li>
</ul>
<ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles.shtml#15" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Utilizing Available Resources: Reaching Jurors with Courtroom Technology, By Ted Brooks - Article for DRI</a></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles.shtml#14" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Litigation Support: Hiring Trial Consultants, By Ted Brooks - Article for Law Technology News</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/newsletters.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive 2</b></a> -<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/newsletters.shtml#5" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">The Trial Lawyer: Seven Months; Four Cases and Huge Verdicts</a></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/newsletters.shtml#4" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">TrialDirector 4.0 brings $27.75M Victory</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/newsletters_archive.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive 3</b></a> -<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/newsletters_archive.shtml#3" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Lit-Support - In-House or Outsource?</a></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/newsletters_archive.shtml#1" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Courtroom Presentations On The Record</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles_archive.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive 4</b></a> -<br />
<ul style="background-color: white; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: -webkit-left;">
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles_archive.shtml#10" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">975 Million Reasons to Stay Tuned to Courtroom Technology, By Daniel R. Miller and Ted Brooks</a></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles_archive.shtml#4" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">PowerPoint on Trial, By Ted Brooks</a></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/articles_archive.shtml#2" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">To hire or not to hire a legal technology consultant? By Ted Brooks</a></li>
<li style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/pdf/dj_article.pdf" style="background: transparent; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Daily Journal Article: "Ready or Not", By Daniel R. Miller and Ted Brooks</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/press.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive 5</b></a> -<br />
<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="8" cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #333333; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; max-width: 100%; width: 100%px;"><tbody style="box-sizing: border-box;">
<tr align="center" style="box-sizing: border-box;" valign="top"><td align="left" style="box-sizing: border-box;"><ul>
<li><a class="link" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/press.shtml#p2" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #2a6496; outline: 0px; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">"Courtroom Technology - A Small Price For Victory", By Daniel R. Miller</a></li>
<li><a class="linkB" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/press.shtml#p1" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-align: justify; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">Litigation Technology Trends</a></li>
</ul>
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<a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/inthepress.shtml" target="_blank"><b>Articles Archive 6</b></a> -<br />
<ul>
<li><a class="linkB" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/inthepress_pub06.shtml" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 255); box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank" title="TechnoLawyer - TechnoFeature Newsletter - Top Five High-Profile Trial Blunders...">TechnoFeature: Top Five High-Profile Trial Blunders and How to Avoid Them...</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"> - by Ted Brooks, a TechnoLawyer exclusive </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><a class="linkB" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/inthepress_pub05.shtml" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank" title="TechnoLawyer - TechnoFeature Newsletter - Inside Robert Blake High-Tech Defense">TechnoFeature: Inside Robert Blake's High-Tech Defense</a> - by Ted Brooks, <i style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">a TechnoLawyer exclusive</b></i></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="linkB" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/inthepress_pub04.shtml" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">TechnoFeature: Trial Technology and Visual Communication</a><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: 400;"> - by Ted Brooks, </span><i style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">a TechnoLawyer exclusive</b></i></b></i></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica neue" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: -webkit-left;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><i style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;"><a class="linkB" href="http://www.litigationtech.com/inthepress_pub03.shtml" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: border-box; color: #428bca; font-style: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">TechnoFeature: Review: InData TrialDirector Suite 4.0</a><span style="font-style: normal; font-weight: 400;">- by Ted Brooks, </span><i style="box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: 400;"><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">TechnoLawyer</b></i></b></i></b></i></span></li>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-76709870281835443422017-12-22T09:14:00.000-08:002017-12-22T09:14:00.039-08:00Ten PowerPoint Tips for the Courtroom<br />
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(Originally published on <a href="http://www.lawtechnologytoday.org/2017/12/powerpoint-tips/" target="_blank">ABA Law Technology Today</a>)</div>
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Since everyone has a different level of comfort and experience with something used as infrequently as PowerPoint, the objective for this list is to approach the topic from several different perspectives, in hopes that each reader might find at least two or three helpful tips. We’ll begin with some very basic design and layout ideas, and move on to some more technical and advanced features. With about 20 years’ experience in trial presentation, these are a few things I’ve seen used/misused most often.</div>
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1. Slide Layout</h3>
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If you’re using PowerPoint slides, you may select widescreen (16:9) or standard (4:3) slides. The current version of PowerPoint defaults to widescreen, but that may not be the best for courtroom use.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbmMIW4YzLG1d5xlHuLNZI1bcQ0C9BSeDJRyclsIYRrTe1rd16FBukDk53-85cHziWCTbFJ5ybxhQqgERHdYYHNrqUwaer-E8fz5XyBXpX8EqdosNMmbU-oxllSdEK_YySNJD4P2AyY4/s1600/1+PPT+format+ws-std.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="365" data-original-width="308" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbbmMIW4YzLG1d5xlHuLNZI1bcQ0C9BSeDJRyclsIYRrTe1rd16FBukDk53-85cHziWCTbFJ5ybxhQqgERHdYYHNrqUwaer-E8fz5XyBXpX8EqdosNMmbU-oxllSdEK_YySNJD4P2AyY4/s200/1+PPT+format+ws-std.JPG" width="168" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 0.9rem;">On wide computer monitors, widescreen fills it up. Most court presentation systems still use a standard projector and screen, however, so although you will fill the side-to-side area, your top and bottom may have a lot of blank space. The projector may be adjusted to compensate, unless someone else is using the standard 4:3 layout. Find out what will be used in your courtroom, and set up your presentation accordingly.</span></div>
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2. Color Choices</h3>
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Volumes have been written on color theory and the visual effects different colors can communicate. Without getting too deep on this, you should consider going with a soft, neutral slide background, as opposed to something that becomes the primary point of interest. You should also avoid using a black text font on a plain white background when possible, as it can actually cause visual fatigue when viewing for long periods of time.</div>
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3. Templates</h3>
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Do use a template. Don’t use a bad template. Using a neutral template will help prevent viewers from becoming distracted by “busy” backgrounds, and can ensure that all slides have a visually similar theme.</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLQrFdTEeYbQdTxqgnu58S4l1kwlivFaNQ_Qw5ToLGMiyzFsfjPsB9UzqGk_cGf4b1Rd_iuBMa-jxz8s8BSoD9zAPNHUzjnWntV0HGLsXtJG3q7EYrgrMNJT4WPaYt3hob234797hasg/s1600/2+PPT+template.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="823" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilLQrFdTEeYbQdTxqgnu58S4l1kwlivFaNQ_Qw5ToLGMiyzFsfjPsB9UzqGk_cGf4b1Rd_iuBMa-jxz8s8BSoD9zAPNHUzjnWntV0HGLsXtJG3q7EYrgrMNJT4WPaYt3hob234797hasg/s320/2+PPT+template.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bonus Hint: This is NOT a good legal slide template.</td></tr>
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Make sure to use an appropriate font and image sizing. Too much text on a slide, or a small photo in the middle of a slide are common mistakes you should avoid. Make sure any sound effects are disabled, and if you do use animated text fly-ins, use a consistent and subtle effect.</div>
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4. Recycling Graphics</h3>
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With a bit of forethought, you can reuse your graphics, making them even more effective in your closing argument. For opening statements, avoid any argument or going beyond “what the evidence will show in trial.” You may be able to tweak it a bit if you use it during testimony with an expert witness, and later adding an argumentative title or comments to the closing version.</div>
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5. Backups and Redundancy</h3>
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Never assume that everything will work properly. If you plan on using the courtroom system, you should bring a backup with you. Ideally, this would be another computer or iPad with your presentation already loaded, but a thumb drive or even a hard-copy printed set might save the day. Fortunately, many courtroom systems still include a document camera (e.g., ELMO).</div>
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6. Video Problems</h3>
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If you’ve added video to presentations before, you may have experienced an issue where you can see the first image of the video, but it won’t play, leaving you with a great opportunity to explain to the jury what they would have seen if only the video had played properly. To make sure this doesn’t happen to you, the media file should be located in the same folder as the PPT file. If you are prompted to upgrade your media file to the current standard, do it, which should embed the media into the PPT. Finally, make sure you test it ahead of time, both in editing and presentation modes.</div>
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7. Save Money</h3>
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Cost is always a factor when it comes to bringing technology into trial. One quick and easy way to reduce costs is with a cost-sharing agreement for equipment rental. In many cases, you might also be able to share “neutral” access to a trial tech for presenting the trial exhibits. This should all be negotiated with opposing counsel well in advance of your trial date.</div>
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8. Blowups and Screen Size</h3>
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Ideally, these decisions are made based on the courtroom layout. In very small courtrooms, or perhaps for a bench trial, you might be able to use a 2’x3’ blowup, with perhaps a 42” monitor. In larger courtrooms, the jury may be seated thirty feet or more from the screen, so you will want to go with a minimum screen size of seven or eight feet. Blowups can then be printed at 4’x6’ or larger. Jurors straining to view a postage stamp at twenty feet is generally not a good strategy.</div>
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9. Monitors or Projector and Screen</h3>
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If your courtroom has technology installed, you will obviously be able to use that.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNByl5r2ZWDuXgzUFIyO-oKiK45rAd0HDVfFOFLLOTIu9vArPYZ19q7aas9eap3DRfWjEsTMpLT8mRWzbVyBp-BmmqxxzMFTKbEyfbCPGy7kmdf6ptqdp7Kzd74qga2gHxVlkbL-UzPe8/s1600/3+USDC+Silicon+Valley.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1061" data-original-width="1600" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNByl5r2ZWDuXgzUFIyO-oKiK45rAd0HDVfFOFLLOTIu9vArPYZ19q7aas9eap3DRfWjEsTMpLT8mRWzbVyBp-BmmqxxzMFTKbEyfbCPGy7kmdf6ptqdp7Kzd74qga2gHxVlkbL-UzPe8/s320/3+USDC+Silicon+Valley.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If not, you will need to decide what sort of equipment to use. While there are several options, and as many opinions, in most cases, I would recommend going with a large screen and projector over several smaller monitors. Your image will be larger, giving you and the jury one central and common point of focus. Plus, you can’t effectively use a laser pointer on a monitor.</div>
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10. System Connections</h3>
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You may be familiar with the terms, “VGA” and “HDMI.” These are the two common video connections used in courtrooms today, and your laptop must be able to utilize one or the other.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjC4mU4ioInoIZz9-2kFQ_n_-RfMqrD8iUvieejqixDUOQH_eGUpCQbPF5q32CqhPL6W1gyQNaxLzHVXujZmBFkvfpkfoAuK7PuioJgUzcaMB6EHkXgovZaHCCHTejEVFtuWqd_6ww7E/s1600/4+usb-hdmi-vga.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMjC4mU4ioInoIZz9-2kFQ_n_-RfMqrD8iUvieejqixDUOQH_eGUpCQbPF5q32CqhPL6W1gyQNaxLzHVXujZmBFkvfpkfoAuK7PuioJgUzcaMB6EHkXgovZaHCCHTejEVFtuWqd_6ww7E/s320/4+usb-hdmi-vga.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left to right: USB, HDMI, VGA</td></tr>
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<strong style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"><em style="border: 0px none; box-sizing: border-box; list-style: none; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px;"> </em></strong>You may need an adapter (i.e., USB, mini DisplayPort), and if you’re planning on going wireless with an iPad, you will need a complete system such as Apple TV to do so. The courts generally do not have the Apple system installed, nor any adapters you might need to connect anything other than VGA or HDMI.</div>
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Bonus Tip: Blank Screen</h3>
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Have you ever been presenting and you wished you could quickly blank the screen? To blank the presentation screen at any time, simply hit the letter “B” key on your keyboard. To resume the presentation, hit the key again, or resume and advance the slide with the mouse, clicker, page-down, or the arrow key. The “W” key works the same, although it projects a white screen instead of black.</div>
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Bonus Tip: Navigation</h3>
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If you need to jump directly to a specific slide without going through several others to get there, simply type in the slide number and then hit the “Enter” key. If you do expect to use this feature, make sure to have a printed set or other slide directory with page numbers, since few things can be quite as humiliating as getting lost in your PowerPoint presentation.</div>
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margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px 5px;">25</span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
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About Ted Brooks</h3>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJEa2iz4GjIW-Mtw0yNOPv2QFDEE5Vv0jQwxlI4l87GUhQNGialrrq0lLuY68vhHdl__tzNgphyphenhyphenRHGpaF0H5mD1WwcO2UvD5xAjDZLNKuZzZs_pmzKzO3x2BGrWxXo9BzbzpF3MvxHrk/s1600/IMG_0356-bkgnd-crop-SMALL.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="706" data-original-width="807" height="174" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQJEa2iz4GjIW-Mtw0yNOPv2QFDEE5Vv0jQwxlI4l87GUhQNGialrrq0lLuY68vhHdl__tzNgphyphenhyphenRHGpaF0H5mD1WwcO2UvD5xAjDZLNKuZzZs_pmzKzO3x2BGrWxXo9BzbzpF3MvxHrk/s200/IMG_0356-bkgnd-crop-SMALL.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Los Angeles, San Francisco<br /><b><i>888-907-4434</i></b></td></tr>
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</section><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: "droid sans" , "arial" , "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.35px;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-size: 12.35px;">Ted Brooks is an experienced Trial Presentation Consultant with offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco. His company (<a href="http://litigationtech.com/" target="_blank"><i>Litigation-Tech LLC</i></a>) has been recognized with many awards, including Best Courtroom Presentation Providers.</b></div>
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<b style="font-size: 12.35px;"><br /></b></div>
</span><div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-44225989035501882912017-12-15T14:55:00.000-08:002018-01-02T11:14:35.653-08:00Who's YOUR trial tech?<h3 class="title" style="border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; padding: 30px 35px 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3C_wVUPg0bXnX4SmshBSX4adUFdXk870Kln99JDS2Dp-zeIHXN3dUrMAKJwtgFffdJnRcKiGgsYwYYTQFWGdkytTN6AhhcqjVEkyDWkrNlwbFWpqVC88ZHUHJ7LbfWZhS1URdBBNK-BQ/s1600/2017-12-02+17.43.42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3C_wVUPg0bXnX4SmshBSX4adUFdXk870Kln99JDS2Dp-zeIHXN3dUrMAKJwtgFffdJnRcKiGgsYwYYTQFWGdkytTN6AhhcqjVEkyDWkrNlwbFWpqVC88ZHUHJ7LbfWZhS1URdBBNK-BQ/s320/2017-12-02+17.43.42.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="color: #434649; font-size: 16px; font-weight: normal; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We work on both sides of the table, and although our primary market is the California courts, we do cover other areas now and then, including a recent $200M arbitration in New York City. Coincidentally, we recently won awards in <a href="https://www.law.com/newyorklawjournal/" target="_blank">New York Law Journal</a> for Best Trial Consultant, and Best "Hot Seat" Trial Technicians!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #434649; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">We have enjoyed our share of successes in the "W" column for both plaintiff and defense, including a recent Defense verdict in Los Angeles, and an <a href="http://www.mercurynews.com/2017/12/14/jury-awards-dublin-woman-5-6-million-after-seeno-companys-walnut-creek-elevator-fails/" target="_blank">SF Bay Area case</a> in which an elevator was repaired with a zip tie, resulting in a $5.6M verdict. Plaintiff was represented by Andy Schwartz and Stan Casper, </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><a href="http://www.cmslaw.com/" target="_blank">http://www.cmslaw.com/</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br />Wrapping up the year, here are a few of our latest Honors & Awards</span></div>
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<li class="award" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 30px 35px; vertical-align: baseline;"><header style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 class="item-title" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
New York Law Journal Magazine, Best Of 2017</h4>
<h5 class="item-subtitle" style="border: 0px; color: #434649; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
New York Law Journal Magazine</h5>
</header><div class="meta" style="border: 0px; color: #66696a; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="date-range" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">September 2017</span></div>
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Best Trial Consultant<br />
Best "Hot Seat" Trial Technicians</div>
</li>
<li class="award" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 30px 35px; vertical-align: baseline;"><header style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 class="item-title" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The Recorder Best of 2017</h4>
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The Recorder</h5>
</header><div class="meta" style="border: 0px; color: #66696a; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="date-range" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">August 2017</span></div>
<div class="description" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 15px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Best "HOT SEAT" TRIAL TECHNICIANS<br />
Best DEMONSTRATIVE EVIDENCE PROVIDER</div>
</li>
<li class="award" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 30px 35px; vertical-align: baseline;"><header style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 class="item-title" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Best of Corporate Counsel</h4>
<h5 class="item-subtitle" style="border: 0px; color: #434649; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Corporate Counsel</h5>
</header><div class="meta" style="border: 0px; color: #66696a; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="date-range" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">June 2017</span></div>
<div class="description" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 15px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
2017 Best of Corporate Counsel<br />
Category: Best TRIAL TECHNOLOGY "HOT SEAT" PROVIDER</div>
</li>
<li class="award" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 30px 35px; vertical-align: baseline;"><header style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 class="item-title" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
2016 Best Courtroom Presentation Providers</h4>
<h5 class="item-subtitle" style="border: 0px; color: #434649; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The Recorder</h5>
</header><div class="meta" style="border: 0px; color: #66696a; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="date-range" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">2016</span></div>
<div class="description" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 15px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Litigation-Tech and Ted Brooks are proud to be recognized as the best trial presentation providers in California. With offices in the extremely competitive markets of Los Angeles and San Francisco, it is a great honor and privilege to be named as "The Best Courtroom Presentation Providers."</div>
</li>
<li class="award" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(221, 221, 221); border-bottom-style: solid; border-image: initial; border-left-color: initial; border-left-style: initial; border-right-color: initial; border-right-style: initial; border-top-color: initial; border-top-style: initial; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 30px 35px; vertical-align: baseline;"><header style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><h4 class="item-title" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
Best Courtroom Presentation Providers - Hall of Fame</h4>
<h5 class="item-subtitle" style="border: 0px; color: #434649; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 16px; margin: 0px 0px 5px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
The Recorder</h5>
</header><div class="meta" style="border: 0px; color: #66696a; font-family: inherit; font-size: 12px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: 14px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
<span class="date-range" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">2015</span></div>
<div class="description" style="border: 0px; color: #333333; font-family: inherit; font-size: 13px; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; line-height: 17px; margin-top: 15px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
This is the 3rd time readers have voted for Litigation-Tech as Best Courtroom Presentation Providers, and as a result, we will also receive the Hall of Fame Award. Thanks so much to all who voted! It is truly humbling to be recognized among the many fine trial presentation providers in the Golden State. I can say that we love what do, and we're glad others do too!</div>
</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-74087208556011162082017-11-29T18:02:00.000-08:002018-01-13T18:03:52.661-08:00Litigation Triangle<br />
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<b>Pick any two: Price, Quality, Service</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutOjjqs8uv2liRFfK9JwLnuT2C-q7sQ_5omnZoQIIRm30KCc9t2_A3N_I_a7nEvqVs0IzxAJM-I2FphinaUDg1FwHDhVDuoLz5y9qXg4Df0DKduf_iCSCdCZm4aCpeAgHxeKOw_UakE4/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="264" data-original-width="311" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiutOjjqs8uv2liRFfK9JwLnuT2C-q7sQ_5omnZoQIIRm30KCc9t2_A3N_I_a7nEvqVs0IzxAJM-I2FphinaUDg1FwHDhVDuoLz5y9qXg4Df0DKduf_iCSCdCZm4aCpeAgHxeKOw_UakE4/s200/20171129+Litigation+Triangle.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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Although it would be difficult to nail down every litigation matter within the boundaries of the Project Management Triangle (see <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_management_triangle" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Project_management_triangle</a>), there are certainly some grains of truth to be found.</div>
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<b>1.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Price – The lowest bid wins!</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPkBncSs008tSIO0UopDjc8w6wZj9lJcWjWdLE856vubev-cj_A2QNo_Hwtd5-mdolI-MInZPwczv7YZOrBiALB2ljdsp0GzF3GP7yPS9nzYiwPvU5CoxMlvW5crDPGCNEK34sNed5rl4/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Price.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="71" data-original-width="66" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPkBncSs008tSIO0UopDjc8w6wZj9lJcWjWdLE856vubev-cj_A2QNo_Hwtd5-mdolI-MInZPwczv7YZOrBiALB2ljdsp0GzF3GP7yPS9nzYiwPvU5CoxMlvW5crDPGCNEK34sNed5rl4/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Price.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Unless you work for a government agency and are forced to award a contract to the lowest bidder regardless of qualifications and experience, this might not always be the best option. That’s not to imply you shouldn’t be cost-conscious, but perhaps there is more to the game than just who’s the cheapest you can find? If you’re just looking for cheap above all else, perhaps one could safely assume that counsel and client are cheap, as well. If that’s the case, then so be it – it shouldn’t be too difficult to find someone who claims they can support your trial at a fraction of the cost of local “market rates.” There are usually good reasons for varying cost levels, and if it seems to be too good to be true, don’t forget there are other creative ways to lower costs, including cost-sharing between parties – this is something we’ve been seeing quite a bit recently.</span><br />
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<b>2.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Quality – Get it right the first time!</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwvDdRJ-FOG_yVaHt8wLlaPDA2hnJrOZQlsjwXtXp-Sfogr3g1gq8mfUE-ca9o9NWTZhLah_Wizb6Bp4aUkJDbR-y1s4Mfwpr4OTOp7pcUeC78C9DMuMJWEs9BT-2wQazAkMlQbBjDPI/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Quality.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="77" data-original-width="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDwvDdRJ-FOG_yVaHt8wLlaPDA2hnJrOZQlsjwXtXp-Sfogr3g1gq8mfUE-ca9o9NWTZhLah_Wizb6Bp4aUkJDbR-y1s4Mfwpr4OTOp7pcUeC78C9DMuMJWEs9BT-2wQazAkMlQbBjDPI/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Quality.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">There’s not much you can knock with those who simply demand the best, although this can quickly bring excessive costs into focus. Another potential caveat to this approach is that the person selling the services may not be the person assigned to your case – in fact, they may not even know each other. This can happen with larger or national firms claiming to cover trials “everywhere.” It is important to know who will actually be working together with you in trial. Nothing beats solid qualifications and actual trial experience, and that rolls all the way down to the “hot seat.”</span><br />
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<b>3.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Service – I need it ASAP!</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ2tIcm1smuVBB3GeS6-DQUnI2HAjviXVcFt6Dprplw-8_hnrnr_vJS75k_OaiZnN-EhHgCl8cKZ8a-wGoM7CWk-gffSFwiSCbZ-IYfFgOb4Wjnx8zka7E71l-PgTAwxVlhEfui3csfA/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Service.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="70" data-original-width="77" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ2tIcm1smuVBB3GeS6-DQUnI2HAjviXVcFt6Dprplw-8_hnrnr_vJS75k_OaiZnN-EhHgCl8cKZ8a-wGoM7CWk-gffSFwiSCbZ-IYfFgOb4Wjnx8zka7E71l-PgTAwxVlhEfui3csfA/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Service.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">In many cases, the luxury of time has been removed from the equation before a provider is selected. This is often the result of delays in securing trial prep and trial presentation providers due to settlement conferences and mediations. A trial date can quickly jump into position after a holiday or other delays in the case. I’m not making this stuff up – I’ve seen it twice in the last two weeks. It’s really not the best strategy to wait until the last minute when there are no options left on the table for settlement. You may find yourself scrambling to find anyone available on such short notice. That’s probably something no client wants to hear.</span><br />
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<b>Conclusion – Finding the perfect fit.</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHb9XbPPMyCvNW49M_cFWd70-gRK5sjrznOCA3qysWagJ5CxV6QhsX0btJMZmkTdGh2DenAJPDPT8ZiXsuxOylSIBi7U62O65IK0Ck0Vy6sfGKUQyJfSwc7GIRzSQDCDCvMvwpE2ahBms/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Bliss.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="100" data-original-width="103" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHb9XbPPMyCvNW49M_cFWd70-gRK5sjrznOCA3qysWagJ5CxV6QhsX0btJMZmkTdGh2DenAJPDPT8ZiXsuxOylSIBi7U62O65IK0Ck0Vy6sfGKUQyJfSwc7GIRzSQDCDCvMvwpE2ahBms/s1600/20171129+Litigation+Triangle+Bliss.JPG" /></a></div>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Ideally, you will find someone who can offer you value. A provider offering value will be setting up a well-balanced triangle for you – one at a reasonable and fair price, with decent qualifications and experience, and who is up to the task of getting everything ready to go in a timely manner. Asking others for referrals and running web searches can help you get started. Be as specific as possible, narrowing your search to the services needed and the location. If you need a Trial Presentation provider in Los Angeles, that’s what you should search for.</span><br />
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-37267822472939433972017-10-31T08:56:00.000-07:002017-10-31T08:56:32.100-07:00Trick or Treat?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmP3k0sR9e3a81T3J0EpG96ey7pHp8KXpD6JkqpVtMYlzfCkZNSDsRY5hSM9NW6OURWvWSf6jGq5KKJZe9qvBF3u4yUIgOJozH6kwsVdMxrKauJCwcp9Z3uEiqROpQGI-VnIuPgmUk49Q/s1600/2017+Pumpkin.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="660" data-original-width="634" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmP3k0sR9e3a81T3J0EpG96ey7pHp8KXpD6JkqpVtMYlzfCkZNSDsRY5hSM9NW6OURWvWSf6jGq5KKJZe9qvBF3u4yUIgOJozH6kwsVdMxrKauJCwcp9Z3uEiqROpQGI-VnIuPgmUk49Q/s200/2017+Pumpkin.JPG" width="191" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Trial or Settle? Trick or Treat?</td></tr>
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I’ve enjoyed the opportunity of congratulating a client on settling their matter prior to trial. Many times. Perhaps too many times. While I do have a vested interest in the case going to trial, I can certainly understand any reluctance on the part of a litigant or counsel, given the incredibly high level of stress and risk involved. What are a few of the factors to be considered?</div>
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1.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>How have settlement negotiations been going? Are the numbers getting closer together, or does one side expect the other to give it all up? Settlement is not about winning or losing – it is more about compromise, which is sort of like winning AND losing at the same time.</div>
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2.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>What is the reputation of opposing counsel? Some attorneys and firms have a strong reputation for winning nearly every case they try. Does that really matter? Perhaps in a close case, where courtroom experience can have a significant effect, but don’t be convinced that past performance guarantees a verdict.</div>
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3.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>What about the evidence? Now there’s an interesting question, especially since that is exactly what the jury is going to be asked to consider and deliberate upon. Not opinions, not reputations of counsel, but the evidence. If you’ve got the evidence, you’ve got the verdict – provided, of course, you’re able to present it effectively.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0LK6f4MT82Pv9fA3R2wVF8CGK4sTy-dLndP6_RZ34WKLwNE8CReCId9_qBceqEgevCWi2fnlUYTP3Sbut0sKYQPIpLqQvLcgSRJSARGBJRtirlh5b1Xhxkc6bXHCnj-h73zEgXJT4GcE/s1600/NYLJ+2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="254" data-original-width="261" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0LK6f4MT82Pv9fA3R2wVF8CGK4sTy-dLndP6_RZ34WKLwNE8CReCId9_qBceqEgevCWi2fnlUYTP3Sbut0sKYQPIpLqQvLcgSRJSARGBJRtirlh5b1Xhxkc6bXHCnj-h73zEgXJT4GcE/s200/NYLJ+2017.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another recent Litigation-Tech award!</td></tr>
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4.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Where are the leaks in your boat? I’ve listened to many attorneys and clients as they’ve convincingly explained their story. If there were only one story to be told, it would be a simple formality to get it done in trial. However, the next question I always ask is, “Where are the problems with our case?” I always ask for trial briefs – not only ours, but perhaps even more importantly, those from the other perspective. Trying to “believe” both sides is the key to forming an objective opinion. That is what a jury is expected to do.</div>
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5.<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Trial is not about settling. By this, I mean that once a decision has been made to go forward with trial, there is no room for compromise with respect to representation of your client. I am not saying that a settlement cannot be reached during, or even after trial, but that there are no good excuses for approaching it with anything less than maximal effort. This may mean long days, spending lots of money, and simply outworking the other side. Litigation is definitely not a 9-5 job.</div>
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These are just a few of the many things that should be considered in every matter preparing for trial. If you’ve been building up the case for some time, don’t forget to get other perspectives and feedback from those unfamiliar with the details. </div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-23867288288777621332017-08-17T13:45:00.000-07:002017-08-17T13:47:08.588-07:00CLE: Ethics, Law & Technology<div class="row row-offcanvas row-offcanvas-right" style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-left: -15px; margin-right: -15px;">
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<b><a href="https://acba.intouchondemand.com/aaeventinfo.aspx?eventid=10263" target="_blank">Ethics, Law & Technology</a><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Provider:<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Alameda County Bar Association</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Location:<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Alameda County Bar Association</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">1000 Broadway, Suite 480</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Oakland, CA 94607</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Phone:<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>510-302-2222</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Date:<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>08/23/2017</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">12:00 PM - 01:30 PM</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Credits:<span style="white-space: pre;"> </span>0.5 HR Ethics, </span></span><span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">1 HR</span> <span style="color: #555555; font-family: "open sans" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">General</span></div>
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<b><a href="https://acba.intouchondemand.com/aaeventinfo.aspx?eventid=10263" target="_blank">Ethics, Law & Technology</a><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In today's world, every attorney should understand the dos
and don’ts of using technology in the courtroom, the huge impact it can have
on juries and the risks (including malpractice) of trying cases the old
fashioned way. Join us to learn the most effective ways to engage jaded
juries and judges and how to get the best bang for your buck when it comes to
using courtroom technology. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Light lunch provided.</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Cost:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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FREE for ACBA Members<o:p></o:p></div>
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$115 for Non Members<o:p></o:p><br />
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<b>Registration Link:</b> <b><a href="https://acba.intouchondemand.com/aaeventinfo.aspx?eventid=10263" target="_blank">Ethics, Law & Technology</a></b></div>
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<b>Please note: there will be a $10 administrative fee if
you cannot make the program, and do not cancel in advance. A $10 fee will
also be assessed for day-of and walk-in registrations.</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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If you have trouble registering, please contact the
Membership Coordinator at <a href="mailto:staci@acbanet.org">staci@acbanet.org</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Speaker:<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b>Ted Brooks</b>, Founder and CEO, <a href="http://litigationtech.com/" target="_blank">Litigation-Tech LLC </a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Starting from a background in engineering, technology, and
a dot-com web development and marketing experience, Ted Brooks began his
trial presentation, litigation support and consulting career in-house with
Brobeck, an Amlaw 100 firm of nearly 1000 attorneys. This in-house law firm
experience helps bridge the gap often encountered when attorneys work with
outside consultants and experts. He founded his trial tech company in 2002,
and since, Ted and his firm have won many awards over the years, including The
Recorder's Best Trial Presentation Provider 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016; and Most
Innovative Use of Technology in Trial (2003).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-57922303077463212602017-06-30T09:01:00.001-07:002017-06-30T16:55:31.312-07:002017 Best of Corporate Counsel<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><i>Who is the best TRIAL TECHNOLOGY "HOT SEAT" PROVIDER?</i></b></div>
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Although for the majority of trials we support we are hired by law firms, we are also frequently retained by insurance carriers, government agencies, and occasionally, directly by clients. Since starting Litigation-Tech in 2002 in the middle of the dot-com implosion, we've won a lot of cases, many long-term clients, and we've picked up a few awards along the way. With that, we are proud, honored, and humbled to share the news of our latest award, where readers of <a href="http://www.corpcounsel.com/" target="_blank">Corporate Counsel</a> responded to the question, "Who is the best TRIAL TECHNOLOGY "HOT SEAT" PROVIDER?" by selecting <a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/" target="_blank">Litigation-Tech</a>.</div>
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We realize there are many excellent trial presentation providers available to firms, and we are grateful to have been chosen as one of the best. Our reputation is perhaps our greatest asset, and with that, we thank you.</div>
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Ted Brooks</div>
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Litigation-Tech LLC</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-37435861388229181642017-04-14T08:35:00.000-07:002017-04-14T08:35:23.022-07:00Best Impeachment EVER!<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="color: #0066cc; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">LitigationWorld</span></i><span style="color: #0066cc; font-family: "Verdana",sans-serif; font-size: 13.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin;">: Micro-Symposium on Valuable Lessons From Memorable Trials </span></b></div>
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<i>All trials have moments of drama from which litigators learn valuable lessons. This issue of LitigationWorld features a micro-symposium with six such lessons. These memorable trial events and resulting tips from <a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/" target="_blank"><b>Ted Brooks</b></a>, Karen Koehler, Benjamin G. Shatz, Neil J. Squillante, Thomas H. Vidal, and Edward Zohn encompass courtroom decorum, direct testimony, cross examination, demonstrative evidence, impeachment, and trial strategy. <b>(This was first published on Technolawyer's LitigationWorld newsletter. I have shared my contribution below, and would be happy to forward a copy of the entire newsletter email upon request. Email requests to tbrooks@litigationtech.com)</b>. </i></div>
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Ted Brooks, Impeachment Requires Diving Into the Details</h3>
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There's nothing as game-changing in trial as a rock-solid impeachment of a key witness. In the Robert Blake murder trial, the media had already tried, convicted, and sentenced Mr. Blake. Everyone was convinced he would spend the rest of his life in jail. Well, everyone except for his attorney — <a href="http://www.mgslawyer.com/" target="_blank">M. Gerald Schwartzbach</a> (and me, of course).</div>
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During trial prep, we had carefully inspected and reviewed all the photographic evidence, and we discovered many interesting things which would later be used in trial. It seems that nobody else spent the time and effort we had to see what was really in there.</div>
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So we have a lead detective on the witness stand, questioning him about the possibility of mishandling the evidence. Gerry (Schwartzbach) asks him if he was there at the dumpster, which was later emptied to find the murder weapon.</div>
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Our detective denied being there at or even near the dumpster, as we displayed the photo to the jury. Once Gerry got him committed and locked in to his story, using TrialDirector, we zoomed in on a tiny little area of the photo, showing him actually on the dumpster. The detective then stated, "Oh yeah, I guess I was there."</div>
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<i>[Publisher's Note: For a detailed account of the Robert Blake trial, see <a href="http://bit.ly/2oackPd" target="_blank">Ted Brooks, Inside Robert Blake's High-Tech Defense, LitigationWorld</a> (Apr 26. 2005)]</i></div>
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Ted Brooks is an award-winning Trial Presentation Consultant and blogger at Court Technology and Trial Presentation.</div>
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Jurors and Technology in Trial: What Were Once Vices Are Now Habits</h3>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Acquittal -- PRICELESS</td></tr>
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<b><i><a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2009/08/jurors-and-technology-in-trial-what.html" target="_blank">Click here</a></i></b> for a related article with additional photos showing this impeachment during the Robert Blake murder trial.</div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-11450822247289180182017-03-24T08:57:00.000-07:002017-03-24T08:57:02.924-07:00Battle of the Trial Presentation Apps<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TechnoLawyer's LitigationWorld newsletter just published an excellent set of 9 different perspectives on trial presentation apps and software. Authors (limited to 175 words) include Ken Broda-Bahm, Ted Brooks (hey, that's me!), Russell Cardon, Mitch Jackson, Karen Koehler, Ian O'Flaherty, Timothy Piganelli, Jeff Richardson, and Thomas Vidal. If you're a subscriber, I welcome your comments and feedback here - from YOUR perspective. If you didn't receive it, I would be happy to forward the entire LitigationWorld email newsletter to you - just PM or email me your email address and I'll send it. My email is tbrooks@litigationtech.com. Once you've had a chance to read it, add your thoughts.</span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If you haven't already subscribed, you should - here is the URL: <a href="http://blog.technolawyer.com/2017/03/battle-trial-presentation-apps.html" target="_blank">http://blog.technolawyer.com/2017/03/battle-trial-presentation-apps.html</a></span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>For a preview, here's my part:</i></span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Ted Brooks, All of the Above: Use Each for Different Purposes</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The key is knowing which tool is best for the job — regardless of the "hero" tales you might read.</span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">An iPad is a great way to handle a modest amount of data, and I would not limit it to TrialPad. TrialDirector offers a free iPad app that will handle many of the basic trial presentation features. The problems I run into most often are either having too much stuff for the iPad to manage, or assuming the courtroom is going to be compatible with your iPad.</span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">PowerPoint and Keynote are great, but unlike trial presentation software, they are linear by nature — slide 7 follows slide 6. This makes it cumbersome to randomly jump from one exhibit to another. I use these for Openings and Closings, since they are "scripted," and not as likely to need last-minute changes.</span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">TrialDirector and other computer/laptop software is what the pros are using every day in trials across the nation. When it comes to trial presentation, this is the best and most capable suite of tools available for the job.</span></div>
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<span style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Ted Brooks is an award-winning <a href="http://www.litigationtech.com/" target="_blank">Trial Presentation Consultant</a> and blogger at <a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Court Technology and Trial Presentation</a>.</span></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-33810012969025737712017-02-22T19:16:00.001-08:002017-02-22T19:16:37.913-08:00One Exhibit No Attorney Wants to See<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>One Exhibit You NEVER Want to See<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Can you recall watching some case where an exhibit like this might
be appropriate? This is one trial exhibit you never want to see – at least as the
Defendant in your own trial. I can tell you that I’ve seen plenty of cases
where a client might have had a decent chance of prevailing, had they decided to
try filing something like this. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">With Florida recently joining, over half of the States have now
adopted the revised version of <a href="http://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_1_competence.html" target="_blank">Rule 1.1 in the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct</a>. The original Rule 1.1
states: “<i><b>A lawyer shall provide competent representation</b> to a client. Competent
representation requires the legal knowledge, skill, thoroughness and
preparation reasonably necessary for the representation.</i>” Fair enough.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The bonus comes in the “new” added language, which includes:
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.americanbar.org/groups/professional_responsibility/publications/model_rules_of_professional_conduct/rule_1_1_competence/comment_on_rule_1_1.html" target="_blank">Comment 8: Maintaining Competence</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“<i>To maintain the requisite knowledge and skill, a lawyer
should keep abreast of changes in the law and its practice, <b style="background-color: yellow;">including the
benefits and risks associated with relevant technology</b>, engage in continuing
study and education and comply with all continuing legal education requirements
to which the lawyer is subject.</i>”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The exhibit shown here is not part of an actual Complaint.
It was created specifically for this article. However, the risk is very real,
given the significant advances and advantages of technology, coupled with the
relatively slow adoption of state-of-the-art legal technology. That risk
applies to its use in “competent representation.” Whether it would be something
like dismissing the capabilities of e-Discovery, failure to search social media
accounts, or suffering a devastating loss in trial because you didn’t have
enough time to present your entire case (without using technology), this is not
where any attorney wants to be – in the Defendant’s chair.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Note that Rule 1.1 doesn’t state that the attorney must know
everything, but it does imply that counsel should at least know <i>about</i> everything.</b> You don’t have to be
an expert, but you may need to call one. There are readily-available experts in
nearly every facet of legal technology.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some language included in many complaints filed states the
following at some point: “…knew, or should have known.” It can be pretty hard
to get around that – especially when it is so clearly stated by the ABA. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now, if you’re still looking for some good excuses, you
might want to check out ten of the best I could come up with: “<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/07/why-you-should-not-use-technology-in.html" target="_blank">Why You Should NOT Use Technology in Your Trial</a>.” Otherwise, please don’t be
THAT attorney!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-6041836624709129882017-02-10T13:45:00.000-08:002017-02-10T13:45:39.545-08:00The Cost of Trial Experience<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>The Vanishing Civil
Jury Trial </b>- In case you’re the only one who hasn’t noticed, there seems to
be a trend toward keeping litigation matters away from the eyes of a jury. This
means fewer trials in the courts, followed by fewer attorneys with trial
experience. Attorney Gary Gwilliam wrote about this in <a href="http://www.plaintiffmagazine.com/images/issues/2010/08-august/reprints/Gwilliam_The-vanishing-civil-jury-trial_Plaintiff-magazine.pdf" target="_blank">Plaintiff Magazine</a> a few years ago. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2uQoR7BIb0dKZlp5tQZ1e06O-Grl8gyHG570kFLo8a8er_0GgScVdH0qd7hO0thHmBbKigzHBvI6Jr5gy3Y8ZRoz3ru_6OL53D6Smq6j-4Qu33Jba3xfnbYivTkFmFkrpHBEfIzSz7YI/s1600/HOTSEAT.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2uQoR7BIb0dKZlp5tQZ1e06O-Grl8gyHG570kFLo8a8er_0GgScVdH0qd7hO0thHmBbKigzHBvI6Jr5gy3Y8ZRoz3ru_6OL53D6Smq6j-4Qu33Jba3xfnbYivTkFmFkrpHBEfIzSz7YI/s200/HOTSEAT.png" width="160" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The "Hot Seat"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Although many cases are settling or going to arbitration, there
are times when an agreement simply cannot be reached. It’s not always a clear
argument of right and wrong. If it were, there would be no need to litigate. <b>If
you have a good case, the fear of going to trial is not a good reason to
surrender</b>.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the ongoing Oracle v. Google matter, U.S. District Judge
William Alsup recently addressed the need for “the next generation of
practitioners” to gain courtroom experience, stating, “The court will
particularly welcome any lawyer with four or fewer years of experience to argue
the upcoming motions.” See: <a href="https://www.law360.com/articles/828058/google-oracle-should-let-young-attys-argue-judge-says" target="_blank">https://www.law360.com/articles/828058/google-oracle-should-let-young-attys-argue-judge-says</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Experience is
Everything</b> - Even with fewer trials to go around, Trial Presentation Consultants
and Trial Techs still find themselves in trial frequently – as it is their core
business. Like other professions faced with a shrinking market, this has caused
a refinement. While it might appear to be an attractive and lucrative business,
it is often difficult for the newcomer to get actual trial experience. <b>As with a
good Trial Attorney, experience is everything</b>. This results in the best rising
to the top, and getting the most work.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>In-house or Outsource
</b>- Although you might be comfortable handling your own technology or having
your paralegal take care of it in some cases, there are those clients with trials
that don’t justify using anyone without many years of courtroom technology
experience. Since it becomes a full-time job, many in-house litigation support
teams bring in help for complex and time-consuming matters. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Over the last 20 years, I’ve seen the whole in-house vs.
outsource idea come full circle. <b>Once a luxury reserved for only the largest
firms, trial technology is now readily available to all</b>. Although there are
options, only those firms with an unusually high amount of trial work should
need to hire full-time trial-support employees. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Costs and Vetting </b>-
If you do decide to go outside the walls of your firm, a typical trial day can
run as much as $1500-$2000 or more, depending on the venue and who you’re
working with. This might come to around $10k per trial week. <b>For a rough idea
on a two-week trial, adding some time for trial prep, you may be near $25k or
so</b>. </div>
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<br /></div>
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That is a lot of money, and I would suggest performing a bit of due
diligence, beyond just clicking the first paid ad link you find on Google. I’ve
written a few articles intended to help in your vetting process:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2013/12/standard-of-care-trial-support-services.html" target="_blank">Standard of Care: Trial Support Services</a><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/11/ten-questions-to-ask-your-hot-seat.html" target="_blank">Ten Questions to Ask Your “Hot Seat” Provider</a><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/11/ten-qualities-of-top-trial-presentation.html" target="_blank"><b>Ten Qualities of Top Trial Presentation Professionals</b></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>The Greatest Asset </b>-
One of the most important benefits of working together with someone who (especially
in these days of fewer trials) spends a great deal of time in the courtroom can
be their level of familiarity and confidence in the whole process. I have heard many times that the “calm” nature of a good Trial Presentation Consultant
was a greatly appreciated benefit. Please don’t hesitate to see how your provider
measures up, or ask us for an estimate on your trial.<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Ted Brooks </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Litigation-Tech LLC </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Los Angeles, San Francisco</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
888-907-4434 Toll-free</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://litigationtech.com/" target="_blank">http://litigationtech.com</a> </div>
<b><div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>2016 Best Courtroom Presentation Providers Award</i></b></div>
</b><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-70697682495100159432017-01-17T10:12:00.000-08:002017-01-17T10:12:18.737-08:002017 Greatest Hits<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
We’ve shared a few “Greatest Hits” lists over the years, and
so here’s the next installment. Although we get a great deal of traffic from
Google and other web searches, we also have our “Top 10 This Week” list, a
blog-specific Search feature, and of course, our Complete Archive Directory. All of these may be found to the right and below this article.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Rather than just another list of favorites, this is a
topical directory of a few articles in each category, featuring several of the
best articles on this blog. If you have a topic of interest, or are looking for
something in particular, a search will likely bring several relevant results.
Expanding the Archive tree may be a little less efficient for searching, but there you can see articles listed in the order they were originally published. Although we've limited each topic to 3 entries, there are a number of additional related articles in each category on the blog. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: red; font-size: x-large;"><u>2017 GREATEST HITS</u></span></h2>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: black;">CUTTING COSTS:</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Although cost is not the same as quality, it is something that everyone should be concerned about. Here are a few ideas on how to save a few bucks for your clients.</i></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/11/haring-trial-support-costs.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/11/haring-trial-support-costs.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/02/trial-tips-friends-and-family-plan.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/02/trial-tips-friends-and-family-plan.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2013/10/cutting-costs-in-trial.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2013/10/cutting-costs-in-trial.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: black;">ETHICS:</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Damned if you do, damned if you don't. Claiming ignorance of technology these days just won't cut it, and many clients know this.</i></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/07/yes-you-can.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/07/yes-you-can.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/03/linkedin-with-donald-trump-legal-ethics.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/03/linkedin-with-donald-trump-legal-ethics.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/07/why-you-should-not-use-technology-in.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/07/why-you-should-not-use-technology-in.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: black;">HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT TRIAL TECH:</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>There are a number of great trial support providers these days, but there are also a few you might want to avoid. Here are a few things to look for.</i></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2013/12/standard-of-care-trial-support-services.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2013/12/standard-of-care-trial-support-services.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/11/ten-questions-to-ask-your-hot-seat.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/11/ten-questions-to-ask-your-hot-seat.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/11/ten-qualities-of-top-trial-presentation.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/11/ten-qualities-of-top-trial-presentation.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: black;">TRIAL TECH SERIES:</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>This selection is intended for those in the trenches, or interested in how this all works. If you're inclined to be in the "hot seat," this series may help.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/08/trial-tech-tips-electronic-exhibit.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/08/trial-tech-tips-electronic-exhibit.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/03/trial-tech-tips-courtroom-equipment.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/03/trial-tech-tips-courtroom-equipment.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2014/12/trial-tech-tips-zoom-and-highlighter.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2014/12/trial-tech-tips-zoom-and-highlighter.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="background-color: black;"><i><span style="color: yellow;">IPAD IN TRIAL:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>If you're a trial attorney or trial tech, you've probably seen an iPad in the courtroom presenting evidence. Although my personal position remains that a laptop is better for larger matters, an iPad can certainly handle the job in smaller cases. The article on the bottom was the first to cover TrialPad, which remains the most popular app for trial presentation.</i></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/10/ipad-in-trial.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/10/ipad-in-trial.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/10/trialdirector-for-ipad.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/10/trialdirector-for-ipad.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2010/12/ipad-apps-for-trial-presentation.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2010/12/ipad-apps-for-trial-presentation.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="background-color: black; color: yellow;"><i>PRO FILES SERIES:<o:p></o:p></i></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Here are a few of the most popular interviews in this series. There are several others.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/12/pro-files-robb-helt.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2015/12/pro-files-robb-helt.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/01/pro-files-monica-bay.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/01/pro-files-monica-bay.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/02/pro-files-chere-estrin.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2016/02/pro-files-chere-estrin.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="color: yellow;"><span style="background-color: black;">ALL-TIME MOST POPULAR:</span><o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>These are the top 3 articles on the blog. Two of them are directories of LinkedIn groups for attorneys and legal professionals, and one is about a revolutionary wireless iPad keyboard.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/08/best-linkedin-groups-for-attorneys-and.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/08/best-linkedin-groups-for-attorneys-and.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/06/ikeyboard-for-ipad-no-more-hunt-peck.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2011/06/ikeyboard-for-ipad-no-more-hunt-peck.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/08/best-linkedin-groups-for-attorneys-and_13.html" target="_blank">http://trial-technology.blogspot.com/2012/08/best-linkedin-groups-for-attorneys-and_13.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p>I hope you've enjoyed this list, and save the link for future reference. Feel free to add your comments here, request additional info, suggest future article topics, etc.</o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6987075063509057978.post-42926765536006508442016-12-15T09:11:00.000-08:002016-12-15T09:13:40.787-08:00Demonstratives: Making Effective Graphics for Trial<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I frequently use Microsoft PowerPoint to create and display
demonstrative graphics used in Opening Statements, Closing Arguments, and with
Expert Witnesses. Although professional graphic artists also use tools such as
Adobe’s Illustrator and Photoshop, in the hands of an experienced user,
PowerPoint can accomplish many of the same tasks, and it is much easier to work
with. In addition, it is often used to present demonstratives in the courtroom –
regardless of which software was used to design them.<o:p></o:p></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX2BACcIAisTl3lKs86tKSfvWwNfefF1rkJevmuvQhKJin4o8l0Pb3oJ6rO2wh-j1dkFg7F4BXNbjVFTAO8Y6s-8FDP6vTmaEYGHcJuq-KTbYioEEe7Sh0QpVox48pOvXm4xiiCXX5Lvk/s1600/DemonstrativesCover.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX2BACcIAisTl3lKs86tKSfvWwNfefF1rkJevmuvQhKJin4o8l0Pb3oJ6rO2wh-j1dkFg7F4BXNbjVFTAO8Y6s-8FDP6vTmaEYGHcJuq-KTbYioEEe7Sh0QpVox48pOvXm4xiiCXX5Lvk/s320/DemonstrativesCover.JPG" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Demonstratives: Making Effective Graphics for Trial</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Published by <a href="http://www.nita.org/" target="_blank">National Institute for Trial Advocacy</a> (NITA),
John Cleaves’ recent book offers an in-depth look at various types of
demonstrative graphics used in litigation, and how to create them using PowerPoint.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Whether you an attorney interested in handling some of your
own graphics work or a paralegal working with trial support and graphics, this
book will help you get it done. Even if you already work with PowerPoint on a
regular basis, I would highly recommend this book, as there are many valuable “power-user”
tips and tricks offered. Plus, John is such a cool guy, and it’s always nice to
support one of our own.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In my experience, I have found that a hard-working trial
team is a successful trial team, which is noted in the Preface of the book:
“…attorneys who are most likely to have a successful outcome …are the ones who
have prepared most thoroughly, …and that preparation includes …demonstrative
graphics.”<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Working with NITA’s fictitious “<i>Homestead Properties, Inc.
v. Manhattan Fire & Casualty Co.</i>” case as an example, the first chapter
touches upon the basic PowerPoint layout and developing trial themes and case
strategy. The remainder of the book addresses many typical litigation graphics
examples, and it covers nearly every function available in PowerPoint used to
create them.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
By design, although the book may be read cover-to-cover like
a novel, it can also be easily be used as a reference to accomplish specific
tasks when developing your own demonstratives. The table of contents is laid out
in great detail, such that if you were interested in how best to add a video to
your presentation, jumping to Chapter 7 (Photographs and Video; Working with
Video) would be a good place to start. Since the book is available in
electronic formats for both iPad and computer viewing, jumping directly to a
desired topic is as easy as a click or a tap.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Zb0r_mtEF5cy7XuIEbO9qEUrbksVCwkB85KlsIQISFDpooziXPnmptGUVqn620xyD9y5a3R7i4YHQthsAEbf9n94sykdIjvRDUTqvKqtqJYhGCKM5jN_DqA-CnJq_GMod8uaiZqZGOE/s1600/DemonstrativesContentsChapter7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Zb0r_mtEF5cy7XuIEbO9qEUrbksVCwkB85KlsIQISFDpooziXPnmptGUVqn620xyD9y5a3R7i4YHQthsAEbf9n94sykdIjvRDUTqvKqtqJYhGCKM5jN_DqA-CnJq_GMod8uaiZqZGOE/s320/DemonstrativesContentsChapter7.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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As noted by renowned photographer Ansel Adams, "people believe photographs."</div>
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About the Author: John Cleaves</div>
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John Cleaves is the Trial Technology Attorney and the
Manager of the Trial Technology Consulting team at Latham & Watkins LLP, a
department he founded and built for the firm. Previously, he was a Director of
Trial Support for FTI Consulting and the Director of Media Services for
LegaLink. He is an attorney licensed by the State Bar of Texas, where he
practiced law for a number of years before becoming a trial consultant.<o:p></o:p></div>
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As a trial consultant, John has assisted on trials and
arbitrations from as far west as Honolulu and as far east as London, from
Seattle to San Diego; Portsmouth, New Hampshire to Fort Lauderdale, Florida,
and most everywhere in between. It will come as no surprise that he is a
certified Microsoft Office Specialist in PowerPoint®.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i>Get the book:</i></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><i><a href="https://www.nita.org/index.php?option=com_dtregister&Itemid=0&eventId=1153&controller=event&task=memberdata&task1=details" target="_blank">Demonstratives: Making Effective Graphics for Trial</a></i></b></div>
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<div class="blogger-post-footer">All materials Copyright Ted Brooks. http://www.litigationtech.com</div>Ted Brookshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10432420287694829102noreply@blogger.com0