Courtroom Technology

 

Using Cameras and Other Electronic Devices in the Courtroom

Attorneys may use electronic devices for hearings and trials, but the court does not permit cameras or any other devices to be used in the public galleries without the express permission of the presiding judge. Wireless access is available to attorneys at no charge. Please contact the clerk's office or the courtroom deputy for more information. Please silence mobile phones before entering the courtroom.

The policy on cameras in the courtroom has been established by the Judicial Conference of the United States:

A judge may authorize broadcasting, televising, recording, or taking photographs in the courtroom and in adjacent areas during investitive, naturalization, or other ceremonial proceedings. A judge may authorize such activities in the courtroom or adjacent areas during other proceedings, or recesses between such other proceedings, only:

1)  for the presentation of evidence;
2)  for the perpetuation of the record of the proceedings; 
3)  for security purposes; 
4)  for other purposes of judicial administration;  
5)  for the photographing, recording, or broadcasting of appellate arguments; or 
6)  in accordance with pilot programs approved by the Judicial Conference.

When broadcasting, televising, recording, or photographing in the courtroom or adjacent areas is permitted, a judge should ensure that it is done in a manner that will:

1)  be consistent with the rights of the parties, 
2)  not unduly distract participants in the proceeding, and
3)  not otherwise interfere with the administration of justice.

 

Automated Evidence Presentation

In courtrooms 250, 260, and 360 you can:

  • Display evidence in the courtroom using a document camera or laptop computer.  An image of the evidence is displayed on monitors already in position for counsel, the court, the witness and members of the jury. 
  • Selectively display the exhibit to any or all of the people listed above.
  • Play video files and DVDs without renting players or monitors.
  • Run computer-animated reenactments from a laptop computer.
  • Use your own trial presentation software to display your evidence.

Additionally, exhibits can be annotated by attorneys and witnesses using touch-sensitive monitors. You can annotate an exhibit, retain the original without annotations, keep a copy with annotations, and do all this without managing multiple photocopies or leaving the courtroom.

 

Technology Training

A member of our staff is available for on-demand courtroom technology training to show you how to make the most of these resources. Please contact the Clerk's Office at 608-264-5156 to schedule an appointment.

 

Using Video Conference in the Courtroom

An attorney may file a motion to appear or have a client or witness appear by video conference, but the motion must be filed before the hearing. Not all video conference systems are compatible with courtroom technology. A successful connection requires time and testing. The Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts has prepared a guide to the courts' National Video Conferencing Service, available here.