NCJ Number
151720
Journal
Trial Volume: 30 Issue: 9 Dated: (September 1994) Pages: 84-88
Date Published
1994
Length
5 pages
Annotation
Computer-generated forensic recreations and simulations can be used as demonstrative evidence in criminal and civil lawsuits. However, lawyers using computer-generated evidence should take care to ensure that such evidence is more probative than inflammatory.
Abstract
A personal computer and software packages costing less than $10,000 can produce forensic simulations and animations. Other software programs are available to allow attorneys to make their illustrative exhibits such as charts, graphs, maps, and pictures. Computer simulations, which depict an expert's opinion and are used to illustrate how objects or human models interact according to certain scientific principles, must be accompanied by a qualified witness. Simulations are often used to illustrate the physics of airplane or automobile crashes. Computer-generated animations generally portray scenes relevant to the case, based on eyewitness testimony or a live videotape. The admissibility of demonstrative evidence lies within the discretion of the trial judge, who must determine if the evidence is relevant to any material issue in the case, and whether its probative value outweighs its prejudicial effect on the jury. 12 notes