Here is the Demonstrative Aid You Need to Substantially Increase Your Chances to Win at Trial

The internet and social media are the two most prevalent mediums through which jurors consume information. A recent study in behavioral neuroscience indicates that approximately 65% of Americans self-identify as visual learners. Recent research also indicates that American attention spans are steadily declining. What is the takeaway? If you are relying solely on verbal communication, you are not effectively communicating with your decision-maker - whether it is a jury, a judge or an arbitrator. Studies indicate that integrating visual aids can boost comprehension and retention rates by up to 42%. Given that around 90% of information transmitted to the brain is visual, the importance of effective demonstratives to reinforce key points cannot be overstated.

Based on over two decades of conducting focus groups, mock trials and post-verdict juror interviews, DRC has discovered that comparative reasoning charts are the among the most effective persuasion devices. These charts are used to vividly contrast allegations with actual evidence (or a lack thereof). For example, when representing the defense, you need to illustrate what culpable conduct looks and feels like, and draw a sharp contrast to the evidence in your case. By providing tangible examples of what one would expect to see if the claims were in fact true, and juxtaposing it to the record, comparative reasoning charts supply an alternative course of reasoning that arms the decision maker with a basis upon which to reject your opponent’s version of events. Consider this example from a civil rights settlement case: