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Where am I now? Lawlink > Local Courts > About Courts > Technology in the Local Court
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Technology in the Local Court
The use of technology in the Local Court is allowing greater flexibility in accessing justice and providing safety for court users.
This page covers:
- AVL - Audio Visual Link
- Remote Witness Facilities
- Electronic evidence
AVL
The Audio Visual Link facility (AVL) is a form of video conferencing using cameras and television screens, that allows two-way communication to a remote location. AVL in Local Courts is primarily used to conduct bail hearings for offenders in a gaol, however, is also used to take evidence from witnesses not able to attend the location, such as for witnesses who are interstate or overseas. Using AVL for bail hearings reduces unnecesary transportation of prisoners to and from Court, especially to regional locations and increases the security for court users.
More information about AVL for bail hearings is available on the Department of Corrective Services website.
Remote Witness Facilities
Remote Witness Facilities (RWF) uses a form of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) to allow witnesses to give evidence from a location outside the courtroom. The witness can see, hear and participate in the court proceedings, but does not sit in the courtroom. The use of RWF can assist victims of crime and vulnerable persons feel safer when giving evidence as they are not in the courtroom with the offender.
Electronic Evidence
Increasingly, evidence produced in court proceedings is in an electronic format. Local Courts are fitted with equipment to play and view a variety of electronic formats. Legal practitioners or persons seeking to produce evidence in an electronic format, must check with the Local Court prior to the day of court that the format they seek to use is compatible with the equipment available at that location.
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