Every good lawyers knows the value of photographs, charts, diagrams, models, and other visual information. Many people are visual learners, absorbing best the information that they see rather than hear. Still others benefit from seeing while hearing. Not only can jurors or judges best understand evidence and arguments presented in both mediums, but it seems probable that persuasion is also enhanced. As the lab trial illustrates, a technology-augmented trial is usually replete with visual images.
Evidence consists of previously scanned computer images rather than paper documents.
Computer slide shows and document cameras supply core components of openings and closings, and testimony takes on new meaning as a witness electronically annotates evidence. Video conferencing likely will result in live testimony from witnesses who today appear only in deposition pages. Exceptions to the hearsay rule may be affected if the ease of remote testimony creates a preference for it in lieu of hearsay testimony. The visual trial increases witness comprehension and counsel persuasion, but trial practices changes. The high-tech trial goes by quickly.