CompuServe Thread

David: Question To THe Expert: Does this accurately represent what you are saying? How accurate has your testimony been translated into graphic form? Can you verify that? Is it creating testimony beyond your analysis? Is it an educated guess? Did your testimony or understanding of the "accident" change after viewing the animation? What does this animation do to clarify the finder of facts understanding of the case? Is it necessary? Does it show facts unsubstantiated by other witnesses or experts? Get the picture? Rick Lapidus Video Production Marketing Inc. 407-241-2961

Dave definetly maybe. for many years – they have been using artists sketches and drawing – In fact one law group I know prefers using "real" artist vs computer artist – because humanoids are rendered in a fashion that jury can identfy more closely (law firm represents plantifs in torts – ie the guy wearing the neck brace) It has been the expert witness that directed the artist what to draw/paint and took the stand . They (experts) are responsible for gathering data and making sure any displays used are accurate/or correct (or they show their clients story to best advantage!) However in talking to some patent lawyers reciently, who are more in tune with toons, they indicated that the makers of computer animation are increasingly being asked to take the stand. They (artist) may be asked to defend the correctness of animation. Several new things (vs "conventional" artist): Perception that some how the computer does the animation by it self. Perception computer art is inherently more "accurate & correct" than conventional art. Animation it is potentionaly more persuasive than still conventional art. It new and lawyers & courts are still testing limits I think sombody looked behind the curtain and saw the wizard. Anyway my advise is if you are not an experienced expert witness in the field – don't pertend to be one. If a lawyer ask you to make a picture you can do that. But if you feel that you are being asked to do something that is incorrect – (its a lie and you know it to be a lie) – like if action takes place at night and they want you to look like noon…. wel,l you may have to some day defend why you made the choices you made (the seeting, the scale, the length of skid marks. Make a long list of questions for expert witness & lawyer. explain to them what is accurate (like the dimentions if entered accuratly), what is close, and what you had to invent (like the clouds in the sky?)They should be able to tell you what is critial and what isn't. Ask them – They get paid to know or find out. The worst possible thing that could happen to you is a sleezy layer (is this a redundant repetition?) sez that an animation you had made is 101% true and accurate represention of something. It is conciveable that you may spend the next 5 years on the stand unraveling that lie. And it is possible that you won't get paid for your time. If you are working with pros – lawyer & expert witnesses – you should never see the inside of court room. good luck dave