Certified Court Video: An Overview

Video is growing in its acceptance by the courts as a valuable communication tool that often expedites proceedings. Today's jurors that are used to fast paced images and stories will no longer be content with a presentation that does not hold their attention. You want to present them with material that will hold their attention and make them see and hear your side of the story. If your job is to be a storyteller to the jury, then you should be using the method they are receiving every day...video. 

There are a number of areas in which video can be used.

• settlement documentary (brochure)
• opening statements
• closing arguments
• video deposition
• day-in-the-life documentary
• video will
• site inspection video

All too often I have heard the other side start their closing arguments with:
"Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I apologize. We didn't come to court with a high tech, multimedia show like Mr./Ms. ______."
I'm not a lawyer, but that can't be an impressive opening. The largest flaw in that excuse is it's not high tech at all, it's just the same thing we all view every day...images projected onto a screen and video.

It's less expensive to make your presentation using an easel and a big white pad and if you have a lame case that's probably the best way since it's harder for the jury to comprehend. There are good and bad ways to save money...is this a good way?

You should be careful selecting a legal videographer. You need one who: