NCJ Number
112310
Journal
Judges' Journal Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: (Spring 1988) Pages: 2-7
Date Published
1988
Length
6 pages
Annotation
The Computerized Assistance Project (CAP) provides each Nuclear Regulatory Agency Licensing Panel judge with a personal computer to assist in the processing and retrieval of documents and information pertinent to complex cases.
Abstract
Each judge has in chambers a personal computer (an IBM XT with a 20 megabyte hard disk capable of storing 10,000 pages of text), a Dataphone II modem for telephone communications, and a printer. Each computer has appropriate software permanently installed. The CAP system captures the trial transcript electronically. Because the judges hear cases at or near the site of the facility seeking a license, all relevant data travel with the judge through a 19-pound, portable computer, which gives all parties electronic access to pertinent information. Another benefit of the CAP is fingertip access to all information and legal research essential for decision writing. CAP word processing capabilities also facilitate decision writing. All of the CAP equipment cost about $5,000 per judge. Over 5 years the cost per year is minimal, and the system will pay for itself in the time saved on the first complex case in which it is used. 13 footnotes.