The Recorder's Best of 2016 voting is now open, which is your opportunity to vote for the best of the best of the firms serving the California legal community. As an award winner for several years, we would greatly appreciate your vote again this year! I would encourage you to vote in every category for which you have an opinion, but if you're in a rush, please at least put a check-mark for Litigation-Tech in #37, Best Courtroom Presentation Provider.https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/RecorderBEST2015We also have some updates coming shortly about the latest release of TrialDirector, and the latest in HD video projectors. We'll also

I know it's short notice, but I wanted to quickly share that Gerry Schwartzbach will be at the Los Angeles Times Book Festival this Sunday, April 10, discussing his new book, "Leaning on the Arc." As you may know, Gerry and I have worked together on many trials, and I consider him one of the best attorneys I have ever worked with - and I've worked with a bunch.Here is a link to the ABA site announcement Meet Author Gerry Schwartzbach at the LA Times Book Festival on Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m., Ankerwycke Booth #934Here is a link to

Donald Trump loves me! It is certainly clear that he can spot a winner – a leader in the profession, at the top of their game. I'm sure that describes me, and must be why he has requested to join my massive and influential LinkedIn network (of a moderate, real-world scale, of course). I feel like I’ve been personally chosen by Mr. Trump as the next big winner of The Apprentice! Fresh off his dominating performance on Super Tuesday, The Donald took a break from his busy schedule to send me this request, which I received on Wednesday, March 2,

Chere Estrin has been promoting informative and educational opportunities for attorneys, paralegals and litigation support staffers for many years. Those who have followed her have witnessed a great deal of effort and success in developing and presenting a wide variety of materials, programs, and certifications. She has a unique talent of engaging many of the top names in our professions to help with all of this. Now, we have a unique opportunity to see what makes her tick: Chere Estrin1.       Where do you currently work, and what is your primary role? I am the President and Co-Founding member of

Derek Miller is the President and CEO of inData Corporation, the developers of TrialDirector. Most everyone involved in Trial Presentation uses, or is at least familiar with what has been called the “Gold Standard” of trial presentation software. While we’ve all been exposed to stories of a few other software-related personalities such as Bill Gates (Microsoft) and Steve Jobs (Apple), it is always interesting to learn a little about the driving forces behind them.Derek Miller1. Where do you currently work, and what is your primary role? inData Corporation – President/CEO2. Share a little about your background, education and work experience prior

If you've been involved or interested in Legal Technology for a few years or more, you already know Monica Bay, who was Editor-in-Chief of Law Technology News, the predecessor to ALM's Legaltech News. If so, you are also familiar with her informative and witty writing style -- always entertaining, yet educational. If you're fortunate enough to have met her in person, you've found that she is the real deal -- just as you'd expected. I am honored to feature Monica Bay, sharing with us a little bit about her past, and our future.Monica Bay1. Where do you currently work, and what

(no political message intended)For the following hypothetical, let’s assume you have a trial coming up in a couple months, and that your case warrants having someone assist with the trial presentation, including handling all of the equipment, documents and deposition video designations, and an Opening presentation slide deck. Which provider should you choose, and how can you find them?Personal Experience– If you’ve used a trial presentation firm in the past, you might (or might not, depending on your experience with them) be inclined to call them once again. There is definitely something “comfortable” about working with someone you already know.

I hope this past year and Holiday Season have been good for you, and that the New Year brings new and exciting opportunities. Of course, we each have a certain degree of control and personal responsibility -- I’ve never seen a door knock upon itself. Every one of us must do our part to search out new opportunities and take advantage of those that might work for us. What we choose to do when presented with those opportunities is up to us. We will pass by some, investigate others, and jump straight into the middle of a few. Along these lines,

TRIALMany things are often taken for granted, especially when in familiar surroundings. With that in mind, here are a few general items to consider when preparing to go to trial in your "local" courthouse. Unless you're in trial more often than most, things may not go as expected. Forgetting even one of these could easily add a little extra panic to the recipe.1. Scheduling – In busier venues such as Los Angeles or San Francisco, you may find that your “Trial Date” is actually when you will be assigned a Department, which can then put you in a “trailing” position

Jason BarnesFirst, a quick reminder that there are still a few spots remaining to see Jason Barnes, along with Robb Helt and Ted Brooks at the Trial Presentation Seminar in Dallas. Check the link if you're interested.Jason Barnes has been involved in trial technology nearly as long as technology has been involved in trial. In order to remain competitive, Jason shares that today's trial team needs more than just hot-seat jockeys. They also need access to competent communication consulting, information design, graphic production of all kinds, along with logistic and technical support. As always, feel free to add your thoughts and comments.1.