Trial preparation has changed significantly over the years. Today, there are numerous presentation tools available, and selecting the right one can be the difference between a smooth, professional trial and one filled with technical setbacks. Choosing the best software starts with understanding your case requirements, the technology available at the courtroom, and the skills of your team.
To determine the right solution, consider questions such as:
- How many exhibits will you present?
- How many depositions are involved?
- Will you use deposition impeachments?
- Who will operate the software?
- What technology is available at the trial site?
Answering these questions will help you identify the most suitable trial presentation software for your case.
Small Cases: Less Than 50 Exhibits (No Video)
For cases with fewer than 50 exhibits and no video requirements, a simple, user-friendly tablet app is often sufficient. These apps are easy for any tech-savvy attorney or paralegal to operate and typically offer basic annotation tools, split-screen functionality, and simple navigation like pinch-to-zoom.
Even with intuitive software, it’s crucial to practice beforehand. Familiarity with the interface ensures a seamless presentation during opening statements and helps avoid unexpected technical issues.
Medium Cases: Less Than 200 Exhibits (No Impeachment Videos)
For cases involving up to 200 exhibits without impeachment videos, more robust tablet apps provide enhanced organization and annotation capabilities. These apps allow multipage views, better document management, and the ability to edit and load video clips ahead of time if needed.
If the trial team is comfortable troubleshooting technology, this option is effective. While laptops may offer more flexibility, tablets can still be sufficient with proper planning and preloaded case materials. Assistance from a consultant or technician can help structure and organize the case database efficiently.
Large Cases: 200+ Exhibits and/or Impeachment Videos
For trials with hundreds of exhibits or deposition impeachments, tablet-based solutions often fall short. Scrolling through large numbers of exhibits can slow down presentations, and tablets may struggle with processing speed, causing lag when opening files.
A laptop-based program with a professional database is recommended for larger cases. These programs allow:
- Real-time playback of deposition videos with or without scrolling text
- Quick access to any exhibit
- Split-screen comparisons of multiple documents or videos
- Live annotations and callouts on exhibits
- Simultaneous display of multiple documents for comparison
Laptops require a robust system and may need specialized training for efficient operation. While the software can be operated by trial team members, having a dedicated professional technician often improves efficiency, ensures best practices are followed, and provides on-the-spot support for complex presentations.
Consider Courtroom Technology
Courtroom infrastructure plays a critical role in selecting trial presentation software. Some courtrooms have modern systems that easily accommodate plug-and-play setups, while others may have limited Wi-Fi, outdated audio/video systems, or no support for advanced technology.
It’s important to scout the courtroom in advance, assess available resources, and plan accordingly. Professional consultation can help identify potential issues, ensure compatibility, and avoid technical delays during the trial.
Conclusion
Selecting the right trial presentation software requires careful consideration of your case size, the types of evidence, and the technology available in the courtroom. Smaller cases may only need simple tablet apps, while larger trials benefit from laptop-based programs with advanced features for annotations, video playback, and document management.
Investing time in planning, organizing your exhibits, and practicing with the chosen software ensures smoother presentations and reduces stress during the trial. When paired with a well-prepared team and an understanding of courtroom technology, the right presentation tools can enhance the overall effectiveness and professionalism of your trial.
