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Technology in Courts
Technology in Courts
Technology is being used in Victorian courts to improve service, efficiency and coordination between jurisdictions, both in court rooms and in court administration. It is also being used to improve court accessibility, especially for those in regional Victoria, from multicultural and Indigenous backgrounds or with a disability.
Technology used in Victorian courts includes:
- videoconferencing to allow some court services to be delivered remotely, either for parties and witnesses who live some distance from the venue, or for vulnerable witnesses such as sexual assault victims and children
- translation services enable court proceedings to be translated into languages other than English simultaneously, as required by defendants and/or witnesses
- plasma screens and other visual devices to display electronic evidence
- hearing loops for the hearing impaired
- digital recording of court proceedings for transcription purposes
- electronic case management systems, which are replacing paper files
- the ability for case details and decisions to be filed and searched electronically
- the lodging of some types of court documents over the internet
- making information about court services available online.
The Victorian Government Reporting Service manages in-court technology, such as videoconferencing and protected witness facilities. It manages information and provides court recording, reporting and transcription services for criminal proceedings to Victoria's courts.
Current initiatives
Technology in Victoria’s legal system is undergoing a major overhaul with the implementation of projects from the Criminal Justice Enhancement Program and Integrated Courts Management System.
The Criminal Justice Enhancement Program provides a linked information management platform for all agencies involved in the criminal justice system. It allows improved information flow about an accused person throughout the lifecycle of their contact with the criminal justice system, from arrest until final release to the community by the courts or corrections authorities.
Integrated Courts Management System is a major initiative to modernise and upgrade the technology of all Victorian courts and tribunals, covering both the criminal and civil jurisdictions. It will implement a single, integrated technology platform and set of computer applications for all Victorian Courts and Tribunals.