Perhaps the question should not be whether cases need litigation support services, but rather how these services can be useful in a trial. Any case can benefit from a court reporter, from the lowest of courts to the Supreme Court itself. However, the use of videography has been widely controversial, and the decision about whether to allow cameras in the courtroom is up to the judge. Many courts that allow videography only do so in civil cases, not criminal (of course, there are quite a few exceptions). Currently, 14 federal courts are participating in a pilot program to test the use of videography. Other courts have held similar studies in the past, while some are adamantly against videography and others fully embrace it without the need to test it first.
How Real-Time Reporting Can Be Useful
• Every case has unique needs and circumstances and may require different services. Litigation support services include professional videography (during the trial and also for pre-trial interviews), interactive real-time reporting, a transcript that can be displayed with the video and finalized after the trial, interpretation and translation, video streaming in off-site locations, and more. Services can be customized as needed. The judge or lawyer only needs to describe their goals and desired outputs!
• Some key witnesses may be unable to attend court. They may have a physical disability, they may be abroad, or they may have some other significant reason. Video conferencing equipment can enable the witness to still provide his or her testimony live in court.
• For high profile cases that interest the public, a broadcasted trial will be appreciated by the public and will shed the government in a positive light. Any interest that can be generated about the judicial system will increase Americans’ awareness about how our legal system works.
• Cases with “a lot on the line” need to be recorded in detail. By video recording the case, court reporters can review the tape multiple times to ensure that they produce a full, accurate transcript. This transcript will have significant influence in the ruling of the case.
• The public often complains about the lack of transparency in government. Closed courts only feed these complaints. By televising trials, peoples’ perception of the government will become more positive as transparency is improved.
Courts continue to realize the benefits of real-time reporting and transcription services. In fact, a bill is being considered that will allow for photography and videography in all courts, not just those that choose to permit it. Litigation support in DC is widely available from a range of professionals, as well as in other parts of the country.
Are you looking for professional litigation support in DC or the surrounding area? Gore Brothers Reporting & Video Company, Inc. will customize its services to fit your needs! Visit http://www.gorebrothers.com or call 1-800-734-5292 for more information.
