Navigating Digital Exhibits in the Courtroom: A Guide for Attorneys in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties
In the age of digital evidence, presenting exhibits in court has become both easier and more complex. While technology has streamlined the process, it also presents new challenges, especially when it comes to ensuring that jurors have access to crucial evidence without compromising the integrity of the trial. For attorneys in Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties, effectively managing digital exhibits is essential for presenting a compelling case and allowing juries to examine the video evidence.
One key consideration is how to provide jurors with access to exhibits during deliberation. Traditionally, attorneys have been advised to have printed copies of exhibits for the court and the jury. While this remains important, there's no need to incur the expense of creating multiple physical copies for the Court. Instead, attorneys can provide the Court with a digital copy of exhibits, typically on a thumb drive, for easy access and reference and one physical copy of documents for the jury.
However, when it comes to certain types of evidence, such as surveillance videos, deposition videos and video evidence in general, presenting them to the jury poses unique challenges. Unlike documents or photographs, these videos cannot simply be printed out and taken back into the deliberation room. Moreover, giving a laptop to the jury is not feasible, as it opens the door to potential misuse by users going through the laptop or doing research on the internet.
One elegant solution is to utilize iPads to present video evidence to the jury. iPads offer the capability to isolate the video viewing function, preventing jurors from accessing other applications or the internet. This ensures that jurors can focus solely on the evidence at hand without any external distractions.
Here's how it works: The attorneys can have the video uploaded onto the iPad beforehand. During deliberation, the bailiff accompanies the jurors to a designated area where they can view the video on the iPad. Jurors are instructed not to speak to each other during this time to maintain impartiality. Once the video has been viewed, the bailiff retrieves the iPad, ensuring that it remains under strict control at all times. This is a process that APVisuals recently help facilitate in a Broward courtroom.
At APVisuals, we specialize in providing innovative solutions for presenting visual and video exhibits in court. We understand the challenges that attorneys face in the digital age and are committed to helping them navigate these complexities. Whether you need assistance with video editing, exhibit preparation, or developing a visual strategy for trial, we're here to help.
To learn more about how APVisuals can support your trial preparation and presentation needs, contact us at 888-399-0988. Together, we can ensure that your client's story is told effectively and persuasively in the courtroom.
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