It’s a simple fact that if you face a high likelihood your case will resolve at mediation, then you should put all you can into mediation to get the best result for your client. This includes using courtroom graphics not just in court for trial, but for mediation.

Having represented many clients in employment cases, from wage and hour to discrimination to class actions, I saw that certain issues arise in almost all employment cases and are especially well suited for graphic presentations.

This post focuses on two types of graphics particularly effective to use in mediation for employment cases: timelines and organizational charts. I’ll describe some basic tips to make them on your own, and discuss more advanced options.

This is an abridged version of an article I wrote for the September 2012 issue of the California Labor & Employment Law Review. Reprinted with permission of the State Bar of California and the California Labor & Employment Law Review.