Judges Guide | Technology

Preface

This guide describes the substantive and procedural considerations that may arise when lawyers bring electronic equipment to the courtroom or use court-provided equipment for displaying or playing evidentiary exhibits or illustrative aids during trial. The guide sets out what lawyers are normally trying to accomplish, the objections opposing counsel may raise, and the considerations of fairness that may attend the various uses of courtroom technology. The materials cover issues that are raised with some frequency as well as more arcane matters that may arise only in special circumstances. The organization of the materials is intended to facilitate quick reference without any need to read the entire volume, and to assist in the conduct of trials using technology from the initial phases of discovery through posttrial briefing. The Federal Judicial Center, which provides research and educational programs for federal judges and court personnel, joined with the National Institute for Trial Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that has provided trial