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Videoconferencing court reporting -- how videoconferencing technology is changing the face of the judicial system

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Videoconferencing court reporting -- how videoconferencing technology is changing the face of the judicial system

October 03, 2006
By:  Lynn Marotta

The use of videoconferencing technology is expanding outside the boardroom into newer and more innovative applications. One of the more recent trends is videoconferencing court reporting. This trend is also being termed telejustice.

In this application, videoconferencing technology is being used in the courtroom for depositions, remote testimonies during trial, as well as for legal consultations. Because videoconferencing technology is so advanced, meetings and interviews can occur as clearly and effectively as they could in person. There are real time and cost savings as well as safety benefits that can result from utilizing this videoconferencing technology in the courtroom.

A company called Polycom provides videoconferencing equipment specifically designed for the unique requirements of the courtroom setting. They market a videoconferencing system that is called Judicial VSX Collaboration System, which can facilitate a one on one videoconference or larger multi-point videoconferences as required. The Polycom system has been implemented in over 250 court reporting and law firms across the country. Let us take a closer look at some of the many benefits achieved from utilizing videoconferencing in court trials.

  • Cost savings -- Videoconferencing saves a significant amount of time and money by eliminating the need to transport detainees to off-site locations. Court and legal officials can also save time traveling back and forth to the prison facility. In addition, setting up a videoconference for off site witness and expert testimonies eliminates the need to pay for travel.
     
  • Enhances security -- With the use of videoconferencing technology, suspects do not have to leave their cell. Legal consultations, testimonies, even psychiatric evaluations can all take place via videoconference without any travel needed. This greatly improves security for everyone involved.
     
  • Facilitates communication -- Videoconferencing makes it easier to facilitate the involvement of key witnesses and expert testimonies. Communication between the inmate and legal and judicial professionals can also easily occur via videoconference. The Polycom website lists several high profile cases including the BTK trial where witness depositions and expert testimonies were coordinated using the Polycom videoconferencing system.

The Polycom videoconferencing system comes in two formats, a rolling cart, or a wall unit. The portable units can be placed directly in the correctional facility or law firm for use whenever an inmate meeting is required. Each unit comes with everything that is necessary to conduct a videoconference.

As this videoconferencing technology catches on, it is being used for more and more applications such as; video arraignments, parole board hearings, expert witness presentations, remote testimony, and even psychiatric evaluations. With all the benefits, this videoconferencing technology can provide to the legal community, it may only be a matter of time before it becomes standard equipment in all courtrooms.

About the Author
Lynn Marotta is a successful freelance writer and contributor to Video-Conferencing-Guide.com.  Your definitive guide to everything you need to know about video driven communications, including multi-view video conferencing solutions for business, broadband video phones and personal webcam chat rooms.

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