Until a couple of years ago, the steno machine was the most advanced
piece of equipment used regularly in federal and state courts. More than 64 years have
passed since stenography machine notes were first used in the Charles Lindbergh/Bruno
Hauptmann murder case...the first "trial of the century."
If the legendary Clarence Darrow were still practicing law, he would be carrying a
laptop computer from deposition to courtroom, and playing back animated exhibits. Because
Darrow's exceptional oratory skills, the electronic information at his fingertips and a
big screen TV, would make an unbeatable communications combination.
Senior citizens no longer occupy the majority of seats on our juries. Younger,
visual-minded, computer-literate jurors are filling those chairs in most metropolitan
areas. These TV-generation jurors dont want attorneys taking hours and days making and
proving their points. They want you to get to the point while using a medium they feel
comfortable with...the TV screen and computer.
Today's legal communications has to be fast, efficient
and powerful. Clients, opposing attorneys, judges and jurors require presentations that
maintain interest, support oral arguments, and explain complex ideas.
Post-trial interviews with jurors confirm what studies have long shown:
visually delivered information is 650 times more effective than just oral argument;
remembering and understanding testimony is the key to believability. Jurors have
frequently commented to researchers on how helpful visual aids were in their decision
process.
