( 3 reviews )
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( 1 of 1 found this review helpful ) Posted: Mar 9 2007
If you've been deterred by the notion of creating a computer presentation for use in court, here's your book. The writing is in plain English and even engaging. The information starts with baby steps but will take you as far as you care to venture. The insights into how juries view, absorb and evaluate evidence is worth the price of the book, even if you never end up creating a computer presentation. The authors also cover using computer presentations with clients, colleagues and while teaching seminars. Absolutely terrific.
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( 2 of 2 found this review helpful ) Posted: Jul 12 2006
This book is a great tool for any lawyer, but particularly a neophyte to visual persuasion, to learn about how to persuade with PowerPoint and other computer presentation tools. It is a treasure trove of examples to use and to stimulate thinking about how to persuade visually.
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Posted: May 21 2006
The authors have outdone themselves with this edition. It is comprehensive and accessible, whether you are a novice or an expert. The CD provides excellent step by step instruction for the lawyer who wants to learn techniques to create the most effective presentations. But the book is more than just technical tips. The discussion of legal concerns, as well as basic rhetorical theory, makes this book an essential resource for lawyers and legal assistants who want to reach jurors (and judges) who are much more media savvy today. Most decision makers are not primarily aural learners, and in the days of CSI, the ability to highlight the most compelling evidence is not just a luxury. What makes the book most valuable is the depth of understanding of persuasive techniques, illustrated with many true-to-life examples. Lawyers who are highly skilled in aural persuasion can hone their messages better, by learning how to harness technology to bring the facts to life through visual illustration. The good lawyer can learn how to present a seamless web of information that will reinforce the trial theme and the trial strategy for the juror or judge who can see and hear the evidence in the courtroom. This is not just about trial techniques. The authors also address other ways in which presentations can be made more effectively (in motion hearings, settlement negotiations, administrative hearings and seminars). The focus of the book is on presentation technique regardless of the format of the presentation. It includes the most popular presentation software (Powerpoint) as well as other software designed specifically for lawyers (Sanction II, TrialDirector). This should be required reading for every litigator who wants to be more persuasive.
