NCJ Number
94835
Journal
Brigham Young University Law Review Volume: 1981 Issue: 3 Dated: (1981) Pages: 659-682
Date Published
1981
Length
24 pages
Annotation
Computer-based case and court management information systems developed for the Federal courts are successful.
Abstract
Technology has three general uses in the courts. First, it can provide management and operational support, enabling courts to deal better with the increased size and complexity of their caseloads. Second, it can speed the execution of routine tasks and increase the amount of useful information available to a court. Finally, it can help courts accomplish the research and planning tasks necessary for the proper administration of justice. The many computer applications developed for the Federal courts by the Federal Judicial Center have been subsumed under the umbrella term Courtran, which today consists of 12 major and 36 minor applications that support criminal, civil, bankruptcy, and appellate case management, as well as numerous facets of daily local court management and national research and administration. The system is designed to assist Federal court personnel, including judges, administrators, support personnel such as secretaries and law clerks, court reporters, and probation officers. A significant feature of the Courtran system is its use of large computers located in Washington, D.C. Studies conducted for and by the center give evidence that the Federal courts are realizing significant benefits from their use of computer technology. There are at least three reasons for the success -- reliable funding, support from the Board of the Federal Judicial Center, and involvement of potential users in the design and development of the applications. Sixty footnotes are provided.