Litigation Support Graphics

The need for crystal clear communication of, sometimes, complex scenarios is an ingredient of many litigation situations. Expert witness opinions can also be complex and require to be reduced into a more understandable format for mediation or courtroom testimony. VN has the experience and graphical capabilities to rigorously convert even the most complex scenarios into visually appealing and understandable graphics, suitable for viewing in a conference room or courtroom. In brief, we can easily translate project scenes into visual renderings to effectively communicate any issues in your case.

We make extensive use of actual photographs or historical aerials. We use these photographs as a platform for building 3D depictions, or as a point of departure for an animation where we can "fade" from an actual photograph to a computer simulation. Such "fades" help juries bridge the visual gap from the actual project to simulations. We excel in this work because of the unique staffing of our company, which unlike most graphical design organizations, is spearheaded by graphic design professionals supported by Project Navigator's team of engineers and scientists. Our work product ranges in sophistication from poster boards to 3D scale models to computer animations. We are available to work with the litigation team to devise the most appropriate and cost-effective information communication methods specific to the case.

Our animation or graphical simulations also can assist with data interpretation and case strategy. For example when 3D data interpretation techniques such as GIS are applied to megabytes of data, pictures, themes and trends emerge, which allow lawyers to better formulate their case strategies. We have found that the process of graphical production sometimes brings a fresh perspective to the actual technical case analysis. So, during graphics production, our designers maintain a simulation logbook that is routinely reviewed and discussed with one of our technical staff. Any technical observations, which are identified as part of the graphical simulation process, are brought to the attention of the legal team.

The typical process we have followed in legal cases is as follows:

1. Legal representation contacts VN, a confidentiality agreement is quickly executed, and some case information or data sample is provided to VN.
2. VN quickly dissects the information, brainstorms and produces a list of possible visualization approaches.
3. Within a few days, an exploratory meeting can be held with attorneys and VN staff. Case objectives and background information is discussed, and VN proposes some early conceptual thoughts.
4. VN returns to work and generates first draft product, which can range from storyboards to animations to 3D data cutaways. If the case or project has its foundation in a piece of equipment or a geographical location, then a tabletop scale model may also be produced. Timelines and distance counters can also be superimposed on images.
5. Draft product is presented to the legal team at a milestone meeting. Feedback is received and the process iterates until the most compelling set of visual aides is generated.
   

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