NCJ Number
93875
Journal
Court Management Journal, S (1984) Pages: 4-9
Date Published
1984
Length
6 pages
Annotation
Both large and small court systems should seriously consider the use of computer technology in their operations.
Abstract
Continuous advances in data base design, simplified program and file inquiry techniques, report generators, and other software improvements have made computers increasingly easy to use. In addition, costs are being reduced in the basic hardware areas of central processing units and their memories, as well as for the peripheral equipment needed to store, sort, and retrieve data required for the information system operation. Both these factors make the use of computer technology increasingly desirable for the courts. Automated systems can provide nearly limitless indexing capability and can also speed the processes of docketing, listing the court calendars, preparing notices, and listing attorneys' cases. Other applications are statistical reporting, scheduling and automated calendaring, jury selection, monitoring support and alimony payments, and automating the traffic ticket systems. Some computerization is also occuring in nonoperational areas such as payroll and personnel. The courts were one of the last systems to use basic computer technology, and need to expand their use and follow the example already set by science, industry, and other parts of government. Eight reference notes are supplied.