Pretrial checklist
Defense trial presentation checklist.
A courtroom presentation system should be tested before the first witness makes its weaknesses visible.
Evidence organization
- Final exhibit universe organized and searchable
- Key exhibits identified by witness and issue
- Likely impeachment material flagged for rapid access
- High-use pages and callouts prepared
- Demonstratives linked to the evidence supporting them
Deposition video
- Designations and counter-designations tracked
- Objection rulings reflected in final clips
- Video and synchronized transcripts tested
- Expected impeachment clips prepared separately
Courtroom technology
- Displays, audio, adapters, switching, and playback tested in the actual room when possible
- Presentation laptop and backup system ready
- Offline copies of critical case materials available
- Power, cabling, and courtroom placement planned
- Coordination completed with courtroom staff and any AV provider
Trial-team workflow
- Counsel and technician agree on exhibit-request conventions
- Witness order and expected presentation needs reviewed
- Opening and closing assets tested
- Daily process established for new exhibits and revised demonstratives
- Contingency plan exists for technical failure
A prepared trial technician or hot-seat operator should make this infrastructure nearly invisible once court begins.