Mobile Connected Courtrooms

About the Program

Category: Information Technology (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

The demands of a large population dependent on mobile and hand-held technology requires courtrooms that can adapt to and accommodate these modern devices. To meet these demands, the Fairfax County Courts and Department of Information Technology researched, designed and implemented a new digital courtroom platform to allow users to wirelessly connect their personal devices to the existing courtroom evidence presentation system, known as CTMS (Courtroom Technology Management System). CTMS 2 was designed to migrate to digital industry standards and accommodate digital technology by integrating wireless device capabilities into the courtroom evidence presentation process. This required a significant upgrade to maintain compatibility with evolving PC and laptop configurations, support wireless handheld devices (Android and Apple), and provide better video quality by supporting higher digital resolutions. This effort aligns with the Fairfax County Court Technology Office strategic mission and objectives: To improve citizens’ access to the courts, facilitate trials and hearings in the most effective and efficient means possible, allow for all three Courts to share common resources, and provide for flexibility and adaptability to incorporate future changes in technology and court proceedings.