NCJ Number
142088
Date Published
1974
Length
72 pages
Annotation
This executive summary provides a volume-by-volume synopsis of a project report on the potential of video technology to improve the adjudicative process in trial and appellate courts and to alleviate court delays.
Abstract
The project was initiated to analyze the technical feasibility of video technology in the criminal process and to clarify legal and procedural issues affecting the implementation of video technology. A national advisory committee composed of leading jurists, lawyers, and court administrators was formed to help project staff identify and demonstrate video applications throughout the United States. Cases were selected which might result in appellate review, in order to establish legal precedent for specific video applications and resolve legal and procedural issues. The project concentrated on criminal cases and resulted in more than 25 video applications in eight States. Video applications included the recording of witness testimony and deposition, the recording of evidence, prerecording of trials for presentation to the jury, and official record of court proceedings. In developing recommendations concerning the use of video technology in criminal courts, the emphasis was on guides and standards, priorities for court-related video uses, and equipment requirements. Further study was recommended to examine legal, operational, and procedural issues associated with video technology and the cost- effectiveness of video recording in relation to other media. Project report volumes include a project summary, a user guide to performance standards and equipment costs, a list of case and reference material abstracts, and a technical analysis of equipment. 13 tables