NCJ Number
166718
Journal
American Jails Volume: 10 Issue: 3 Dated: (July/August 1996) Pages: 66-69
Date Published
1996
Length
4 pages
Annotation
After explaining the videoconferencing concept for first- appearance arraignment hearings, this article explains its basic design and discusses its legal aspects.
Abstract
Videoconferencing provides for the necessary communication among the required personnel to make the decisions required for arraignment hearings, but without the expense and risks of traditional hearings in court facilities. Videoconferencing provides access to the disabled, no distractions, a controlled environment, an information search made easier, faster turnaround for cases, increased security, a better view of everyone, and reduced transportation expense. Split screen and the use of fiber-optic cables are making real-time viewing a reality. The basic design allows up to five inputs of audio, either from the same room or different areas, to enter a mixer and be decoded for viewing on a standard TV screen. The basic video design is the same as the audio, except cameras are used and both the audio and video are superimposed onto the viewing screen. A discussion of the legal aspects of videoconferencing summarizes the rulings in relevant cases. The author notes that the courts are "see-sawing" back and forth on the issue. He advises that if the judiciary is approached correctly and positively, their minds will open to new ideas and legal obstacles to videoconferencing will be eliminated. A figure illustrates the framework for videoconferencing.