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Alternative Dispute Resolution

Jun. 12, 2026

Quick tip: Visual aids should be used at mediation, not just trial

Lawyers should use visual aids and key evidence during mediation to clarify their cases early and increase the likelihood of early settlement by helping all sides realistically assess trial risk.

Dennis J. Landin

Judge (ret.), neutral
ADR Services

UCLA School of Law

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Quick tip: Visual aids should be used at mediation, not just trial
Shutterstock

When I was on the bench, I saw some very creative and persuasive visual aids that piqued the interest of everyone in the courtroom. What I did not see then and don't always see now as a mediator is their use during settlement discussions.

Attaching a timeline, glossary of terms, or a photo to your mediation statement will go a long way toward getting the mediator to better understand your case at an early stage. If a brief is not required, bring it to t...

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