ARTICLE
12 September 2024

Visual Persuasion: Using Graphics In Appellate Briefs

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Frost Brown Todd

Contributor

Frost Brown Todd is a full-service law firm with more than 575 lawyers operating in 17 offices across nine states and Washington, D.C. Dedicated to refining the art of client service, we leverage technical, industry and legal knowledge and hands-on experience to serve a diverse client base, from leading multinationals to small, entrepreneurial companies.
Although words have long been the appellate weapons of choice, don't underestimate the persuasion power of visuals in crafting impactful briefs. As most briefs are now filed—and read—electronically...
United States Litigation, Mediation & Arbitration

Although words have long been the appellate weapons of choice, don't underestimate the persuasion power of visuals in crafting impactful briefs. As most briefs are now filed—and read—electronically, including an image to capture attention and clarify complex information is increasingly paramount. Incorporating visuals—pictures, graphs, charts—into appellate briefs is a game-changer, offering a breath of fresh air to text-weary eyes and condensing complex ideas into a single, powerful impression.

The adage "a picture is worth a thousand words" is never more true than when you translate a convoluted table of data into a clear, colorful graph. Suddenly, trends and comparisons leap off the page. Timelines unravel the knot of dates and events. A strategic chart placed in your brief can serve as an anchor, bringing the judge back to your key points during deliberations. So, working alongside your carefully chosen text, visual graphics amplify the very purpose of an appellate brief—illuminating arguments, aiding comprehension, and ensuring your points are both seen and remembered.

But there are rules and limits to bear in mind when integrating graphic elements:

  • Relevance. Each visual must directly support your argument, not distract from it.
  • Simplicity. Overly detailed graphics can muddle rather than clarify.
  • Ethics. Visuals must be honest representations of facts or expert opinions and comply with the same standards of evidence as textual arguments. Cite sources for your graphics just as you would for quotations and treaties.
  • Professionalism. Every chart, diagram, or photo should maintain the formal tone of the appellate brief.

Experienced appellate advocates have learned that continued success means adapting to digital readers and a more visual-centric culture. Briefs that embrace this fusion of imagery and argument will stand out, resonate and, ultimately, persuade.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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