The streamlining of the litigation process through the implementation of advanced communication technologies has enhanced the court’s ability to meet  the needs of the bar and the public, while preserving the dignity and fairness of the proceedings.  Since we are five times as likely to remember something we both see and hear, the audio/visual means of presentation increases both efficiency and juror comprehension. The court encourages members of the bar to take advantage of this technology. With minimal training, attorneys can present photos, documents, objects, videotapes and electronic presentations to focus juror attention on critical details. 

The Digital Evidence Presentation System (DEPS) serves as the heart of the well-concealed electronics in all nine courtrooms. The DEPS allows counsel to switch from displaying exhibits, realtime transcripts, video recordings or multimedia presentations with the push of a button. Some of the advanced technology integrated into the courtroom includes: A document camera which can be used to display exhibits such as documents or medium-sized three- dimensional objects; VGA connections to display  multi- media presentations or images  from a portable computer; documents, images, etc. can be displayed on any monitor in the courtroom; a color video printer that can produce a color print of any image displayed through the DEPS; annotation monitors located at the podium as well as at the witness box allows on-screen drawing to emphasize specific details for display throughout the courtroom. 

Realtime transcription from the court reporter can be directed to computers at the Judge’s bench,  and counsel tables (counsel must provide their own laptop computer). 15" flat panel video displays are located on each counsel table, on the Judge’s bench, the courtroom deputy location, the witness box , and between each pair of jurors to make visual display efficient. In addition to well-placed video displays, infrared listening assistance and translation is available to all participants. 

Technology-ready counsel tables provide quick-connect capability for data, voice, realtime transcription and video. Counsel can bring portable  computer equipment to plug into ports discreetly concealed within boxes under the table lamps to access the electronics in the courtroom. The Rio Grande, Brazos, Chama and Vermejo courtrooms are augmented by fully integrated video conferencing systems. Three fixed video-conferencing cameras are focused on the Judge, witness, and the presenter at the lectern.  The equipment can be used for remote witness testimony, pretrial conferences or other court proceedings. The use of this technology is easily controlled from multiple touch panel controllers at the Judge’s bench and the courtroom deputy location.  Video conferencing is also available in Santa Fe as well as in Las Cruces.

The following list indicates what items are available in which courtrooms.  Counsel are encouraged to contact the courtroom deputy to arrange for the use of this equipment. For training on use of the equipment, please contact Scott Ferguson at 505-348-2063.
 

Albuquerque Courtrooms