Modern technology has entered the courtroom just like it has in almost every facet of society. Advanced devices such as smartphones, advanced systems and software, as well as video and audio equipment have revolutionized the way lawyers schedule jury presentations and other legal proceedings. The best example of that is how Judge Adams uses a variety of apps and services to manage his courtroom and his iPad proceedings. During a trial he makes all the notes on OneNote. He also organized workshops/seminars that would teach lawyers how to use technology. It has made manageable volumes of documentation. The more advanced equipment, the less paper exhibits and boxes of bankers are required for deposition or court. Oral arguments and proof presentations became crisp and clear. To study and analyze transcripts became less difficult. Technology incorporation has not changed the way the firm worked, it has changed the way information was digested, transmitted and interpreted.
The frameworks and workflows can be used, whatever the size of the firm or the nature of the situation. While using technology can make large, complex issues workable, it is equally effective in case of small “routine” cases. During trials and depositions IPad is used to arrange criminal cases, present evidence, perform fly studies, select jurors, and data of arrested individuals and for a number of other tasks. Country-wide lawyers are quickly turning to the new mobile apps to better manage legal work on – the-go and achieve a competitive advantage in their respective areas of law.
Some of their favorite apps include: KLW EZ-Litigation App, Evernote [Best Productivity & Note Taking App], FastCase: Lawyers can do legal research in the last minute without having to leave the courtroom, NotaryCam, TrialPad was developed by lawyers primarily for use in the courtroom. It helps attorneys to compile, annotate and maintain their case files for court hearings, jury trials, mediation and other environments. The use of electronic versions of displays allows the lawyer greater power and versatility. This form of adaptation gives rise to a fluid examination. There’s no waiting for everyone to enter the same exhibit section and website, because you can easily guide everyone to it In short, evidence can be given in smaller, more digestible bites: increase witness testimony effect, save time, and keep the fact-finder focused.
Evidence laws are likely to allow such summaries to be used to mitigate fundamental concerns; however, it is always best to check the local evidence rules and civil proceedings before trying to use any technology in the courtroom or at a deposition. The Federal Evidence Rules allow for the use of summaries and copies of exhibits as long as the summaries are based on the data contained in the records, and copies are genuine. Computers and tablet devices can carry plenty of legal resources and can provide instant access to procedural rules, proof rules, case law, and statutes. Simply bringing an iPad to trial will not help the case, but an effort to incorporate technology throughout the legal process will.
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