Pro.
Dart Jackson, Director of Business Development and Chief Counsel, Litigation Presentation Inc.
Recent research proves that when a visual presentation strategy is employed to amplify oral arguments and presentations, it increases the likelihood of winning at trial. Why? Because it makes the facts presented clearer. Emerging courtroom presentation technologies include applying color theory and psychology in the design of demonstratives that increase retention for the trier of fact (i.e., judges or juries). Jurors are well accustomed to entertaining commercials, Web sites and even newscasts. New technologies utilizing visual strategy mimic these experiences.
Increasingly, progressive lawyers are successfully implementing new technologies and the competitive landscape requires all lawyers to learn about --- and utilize --- them. When effective communication and presentation theories are applied, along with proper trial preparation and presentation skills, it naturally strengthens the litigator's argument. Further, it builds credibility and increases both the jury and judge's understanding of facts.
Con.
Dax E. Lopez, Attorney Foltz Martin LLC
There is no doubt that when used appropriately, and in the right amount, technology can be a powerful tool to effectively communicate with a jury. However, technology should not be relied upon as a substitute for an attorney's presentation and oratory skills. Attorneys known for winning at trial have learned the ability to draw in even the most challenging juries by developing a strong theme, choosing the most material facts, and conveying those ideas using the right synchronization of well articulated phrases, tone, body movement, and properly placed pauses. These techniques, if honed and mastered, can be just as effective in entertaining and enlightening a jury as any technology-based presentation.
Indeed, an attorney's ability to paint a vivid picture using good old fashioned story telling techniques can render flashy or dramatic visuals unnecessary. Moreover, these skills are invaluable to salvaging a case if there is a technology failure in court, or if some courtroom visuals are objected to and precluded from being presented to the jury. In the end, technology in the courtroom should serve as a complement to, but not a substitute for an attorney's well crafted presentation skills.
Edited by Tom Sabulis, tsabulis@ajc.com
Tom Sabulis
AJC External Content
Atlanta Journal-Constitution
72 Marietta St. NW
Atlanta, GA 30303
404-526-5453
tsabulis@ajc.com
No comments:
Post a Comment