The “CSI” Effect
May 21st, 2008 Posted in Digital Litigation Solutions, Legal Videography, Legalsized Blog, Trial Consultants, Trial Graphics, Video Settlement Brochure, Video Site Inspections, Videotaping Depositions–Juries on TV have it made… eccentric judges, quirky yet passionate counsel and the most unbelievable (yet somehow plausible) criminal cases. Shows like Law & Order make jury duty seem like an interesting escape from the common cubicle.
–In reality, jurors are commonly bored by mundane civil proceedings and generally disappointed by the overall courtroom experience. They may understand it isn’t realistic to expect last minute evidence to be introduced in dramatic fashion (thanks Matlock), but jurors still expect to be entertained by multimedia trial presentations, video site inspections, and 3D accident scene re-creations.
–More and more, it seems Crime drama television is as popular as reality television. Audiences just can’t get enough Cold Case, NCIS, JAG, Forensic Files, Law & Order, and all 17 versions of CSI (I’m still waiting for CSI Fargo). For the general public (aka Jurors), the perceived line between entertainment and the justice system is fading quickly. Even if they don’t come right out and say so, many jurors expect that some evidence be presented using multimedia presentation. Whether it’s a video deposition, computer animated simulations, surveillance footage, or even simple trial graphics. The public knows the technology exists…they see it on TV!
–For years John Grisham has been serving up bestselling, insightful and fictional glimpses into the American justice system. Attorneys need to take notice and take advantage of people’s insatiable legal curiosity. They want to learn more, give them something to soak in; I’m not saying the bailiff should swear in the jury and then serve them popcorn and soda….but the reality of jurors’ expectations is not too far removed. Deep down jurors assume that there are experts somewhere trying to make sense of the evidence and that a trial technician is working feverishly to prepare a colorful and creative way to present that evidence.
–Give the jurors what they want, and they will return the favor… now that’s quid pro quo you can take to the bank!
6 Responses to “The “CSI” Effect”
By Scott Biggio on May 21, 2008
Great Blog. I have served on a jury before and always wondered why you never see video or computer evidence.
I think you guys are on the right path here. I would be interested in a blog about what a Video Settlement Brochure is.
By Jennifer Weldon on May 22, 2008
You’ve ‘hit the nail on the head’…I enjoyed reading your Blog. You’re very articulate in laying out the 21st Century legal/court system in relationship to the juror’s perception of court proceedings based on countless hours of watching TV, movies & the influx of legal-based books. We are definitely a ‘visual’ society and are use to being entertained. Your business sounds like just the answer to keeping the legal system on par with the technological growth spurt. It’s needed!
By Marcus Foster on May 22, 2008
I believe the use of technology in the courtroom will be a great advantage to attorneys and jurors alike. Digital trial support will be the new normal in all types of litigation.
By Veronica Sonier on May 26, 2008
I have spoken to attourneys that speak very highly of this technology in the courtroom. Video depositions can be very instrumental in proving or disproving a clients credibility. Digital trial support is an effective way to reach people through a different mode of communication. Teachers always look for alternative styles to get information to their students. Your services will provide that advantage that may reach some jurors on a level that can make a real difference in the outcome of a trial.
By Kelly on Aug 5, 2008
I’ve experienced an odd backlash from the “CSI effect”. After a series of break-ins in my appartment I asked two different officers on two separate occations to collect various things I felt were evidence. Both of them said “This isn’t CSI, miss” Finally, upon complaint, a detective was sent over and the objects were retrieved.