Technological Advances in the Courtroom

• NCJ Number: 202930
• Journal: Issues of Democracy: The Changing Face of U.S. Courts Volume: 8 Issue: 1 Dated: May 2003 Pages: 32-36
• Author(s): Edward C. Prado; Leslie Sara Hyman
• Date Published: May 2003
• Length: 5 pages
• Publication Format: Document (Online)
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: *This document is currently unavailable from NCJRS. Downloaded November 11, 2003.

Annotation

This article examines the use of sophisticated technology in the U.S. Federal court system offering the public a better understanding of the court system.

Abstract

Building trust in the United States judicial system is paramount, and the advancement in technology can make information on the courts more accessible to the public, thereby building the trust in the system. This article presents various advanced technologies utilized in the U.S. Federal courtroom, specifically Judge Edward C. Prado in San Antonio, TX. This model courtroom was remodeled specifically to expand the available technology. This courtroom began its renovation in 1996 with the use of “real-time” transcription. Real-time transcription allows the litigants to search the transcript, review transcripts from prior days’ testimony, quickly read back questions or testimony to witnesses, annotate their personal copies of the transcript, and purchase each day’s rough transcript to assist in preparation for the next day’s testimony. The courtroom was remodeled and wired with current audio-visual technology with the equipment designed to facilitate the presentation of evidence. The courtroom is also equipped with video monitors which are connected to a VCR. The courtroom is equipped with several computer inputs connected to monitors. Presenting devices can be controlled by using a touchpad at the podium or a wireless touchpad. Modern features added to the courtroom include: voice-activated video cameras and wireless microphones and headsets. The use of technology in the courtroom has resulted in numerous benefits to the litigants and the public, with the most important benefit to the court system itself. The use of technology permits greater access to proceedings by many observers. These technological benefits should only improve as United States courts continue to add technology and as judges and litigants become more familiar with the features of the existing technology.