What software/freeware do I use?

There are so many great programs available for lawyers.  However, the key is to dream up useful applications that work within the context of trial preparation and presentation.  I have grown to enjoy certain programming to provide core function to my practice.  These are my personal preferences and in no way put down other products out there.  I would love to learn about more products, but only can tell about that which I use.

OCR: Adobe Acrobat 9 

BATESTAMP:  Adobe Acrobat 9 

PRINT TO PDF: I use the freeware program Bullzip PDF writer for capturing websites in pdf form. Adobe provides the same ability, I just prefer Bullzip.  

COPY WHAT YOU SEE:  There is the age old "print screen" button.  However, I prefer the ease of use and functionality of PicPick.  This is a screen capture tool that allows basic image editing.  It is freeware ONLY for personal use.  A license is needed for commercial use.

RECORD VIDEO FROM YOUR SCREEN: Camtasia Studio.  I have seen flash recorders and other screen recorders.  Yet, I can not find a better program than Camtasia.  In fact, the Camtasia Studio is up to version 7.1 and their old version 4 works better than most I've seen.  That being said, I would recommend the newest version.

VIDEO EDITING: I utilize Pinnacle Studio 12.  I know that there are some upgrades available, but I'm not sure if I am going to remain loyal.  I have some disagreements with the program.  I'll keep you posted with my updated search for the next video editing choice.

PHOTO EDITING/CROPPING/ETC.:  GIMP otherwise known as the GNU Image Manipulation Program.  This is all I use.  It is Freeware.  It is more powerful than Adobe Photoshop and Corel Paint Shop Pro.  This is hands down my favorite program.  The only problem I have with it is the slow startup speed.

SLIDESHOW PRESENTER:  Although I hate to admit it, there does not appear to be a better slideshow presenter than Microsoft Power Point 2010.  There are some alternative slideshow presenters (freeware): Open Office Impress or LibreOffice Impress.  These are both free office suites that are open source.  They work great but just aren't there yet with the slideshow presenter.

TRIAL PRESENTATION SOFTWARE: Trial Director.  There are cheaper alternatives out there.  However, this is the key component to success in the courtroom and I want the best and fastest program.  Trial Director accomplishes this.  The tech team does not always treat you as they should for what you pay for the product.  Also, their manuals are basic only and the training is extremely expensive.  However, the product is great.  Just have a fast computer utilizing Windows 7.  

TIMELINE CREATOR: TimelineXpress 4.5.  Unfortunately, it appears that In Data doesn't really care about this product.  They have not updated it and their salesmen have expressed that they have no plans to work with it.  Too bad.  The concept is great.  The only downfall is that it does not integrate well with their other product, Trial Director.  So, it has to be run separate and apart.  

DVD/CD BURNER:  Roxio Creater 2011.  It is easy and quick.  I know there are free programs out there that do the same thing, but this came with the computer so I use it.  If you want freeware reviews, goto Gizmo's Freeware.