NCJ Number
170736
Journal
Judges' Journal Volume: 35 Issue: 1 Dated: (Winter 1996) Pages: 35-37
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article describes some of the benefits accruing to judges who use computers and electronic communication and reviews other new technological developments of interest to the judiciary.
Abstract
Electronic procedures and faster, more efficient and more comprehensive research may lead to quicker resolution of cases; and colleagues across the country can confer on the handling of a case. Electronic procedures do no violence to the judicial system; stare decisis and order are maintained. Information with which judges work to craft decisions and opinions arrives in chambers quickly and economically, and is up-to-date and accurate. Committee meetings which a judge could previously not attend because of distance, cost or heavy dockets are now accessible by conference call or conference computer connection. A judge who uses a computer can better understand issues arising as a result of computer technology. Judicial educational opportunities are available online. Other new technological innovations include an Internet page that lists court forms which can be accessed and returned electronically, and the expanded use of kiosks for traffic, small claims and family law matters.