The expert can illustrate presentations with lively, clear and persuasive visual aids. The expert should relate the statistics to the facts of the case being tried. The above example does that by humanizing the result and making it applicable to the subject case.

A simple, well-organized graphic display can convey vast amounts of information in support of the expert's verbal testimony and enhance the witness's effectiveness. To present statistical data with visual aids during direct examination in a positive and understandable way, the expert should:

• Use simple, familiar presentations.
• Make all items large and easy to read and understand.
• Present details in spoken testimony, and add and integrate information with overlays from chart to chart.
• Use solid colors like red, green and blue for graphic software programs (which may not present well otherwise).
• Use charts and graphs to show the clearest contrast between the expert's position and that of the opposition.
• Use slides to present graphic information, which can be discussed during direct examination.
• Know that simple poster boards or flip charts are sometimes more effective for a small audience.
• Employ the services of a graphic artist or technician (i.e., have visual aids prepared professionally).
• Develop visual aids with counsel's assistance.
• Explain complex financial, statistical or technical data by using a simple analogy.
• Provide graphics that can stand alone, are self-explanatory and emphasize the salient points of testimony.
• Write on the poster boards or charts in clear, legible handwriting.
• Ensure that written materials are easy to read and understand.
• Be a good presenter and never turn away from the jury.
• Always step to one side to present visual material.

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