Whether you're a new lawyer or your case history is all settlements, that first appearance in court can be intimidating. No matter which side of the aisle you're on, it's important that you're completely prepared to present your case as soundly as you can. The stronger the visual aids you have in the courtroom, the easier it will be for the jury to envision the scene and the incidents in question. One of the key forms of evidence you should consider presenting is a reconstruction of the scene itself. Here are a few different methods you can use to provide the court members with thorough views of the scene.

Aerial Prints

There are many resources available online that provide aerial mapping images for public use. If you can get an aerial image of the crime scene that's dated with the current satellite image date, that can serve as a great overhead perspective to help you plot out the sequence of events for the court members.

You'll want to have the map image blown up and printed on large poster board. Remember that the image must be large enough to be clearly seen by everyone involved, so opt for larger than you think you need just to be safe. On that image, include the printed link to the URL where the image came from and the date of the satellite image.

If you want an aerial photo that you can attest to the production date of, consider retaining the services of an aerial photographer who can get recent images for you if it's in the case budget to do so. These professionals are usually somewhat expensive, but they can get you precise images that are clear and properly cropped.

Street Level Images

In addition to the aerial images for overview presentations, you may also want to secure some pictures from the street level. There are a lot of online mapping services that provide street-level views of different areas. If you can get images like this, it can be helpful for focusing on a specific spot in the case. Just remember that if you are trying to produce a panoramic view, digitally stitching the images together is likely to create distortion. Avoid this by hiring someone to go out to the scene in person with a panoramic head on a tripod to take pictures for you. Working with a professional photographer also helps ensure that you get a resolution high enough to blow up for the presentation boards.

Laser Scene Recreation

If you need more extensive detail in your scene recreation, you might want to think about working with a laser reconstruction team. Laser reconstruction is a great way for you to build a 3D model of the crime scene. The laser reconstruction tools rely on laser beams which fire repeatedly around the entire area to measure the distance between the laser itself and each of the objects in the area. Then, it uses the feedback to design the scene in a 3D modeling program. You can use the results of this to establish a full 3D model of the scene. Have it crafted large enough that it can be easily seen in court and you'll have a powerful visual aid that will help the jury and other court members clearly follow the timeline of events.

Since an estimated two-thirds of people are visual learners, visual aids can really make or break a case. Understanding how to use that to your advantage by creating clear visuals of the crime scene may help you to turn your first trial into your first victory. With these tips and a quality printing service, you'll be able to bring the crime scene into the courtroom. For more information about reconstructing a crime scene, an experienced trial attorney can provide good advice.