Vol. 34, No. 4, 56. Infonnation Connection.

• Author: by Tawnya Plumb Associate Law Librarian University of Wyoming Law Library

Wyoming Bar Journal

2011.

Vol. 34, No. 4, 56.

Infonnation Connection

Wyoming LawyerIssue: August, 2011Infonnation Connectionby Tawnya Plumb Associate Law Librarian University of Wyoming Law LibraryVideo Conferencing: Clianging tlie Way Courts do Business

Video conferencing is alive and well in the state of Wyoming thanks to Chief Justice Kite's support of technology initiatives, the Legislature, and most of all, judges and chambers' staff. Courts, firms, and attorneys are all benefiting from the convenience of using video conferencing equipment available in all district courts, select circuit courts, state agencies, correctional facilities, schools, children's homes, and law firms. Consider the following advantages of video conferencing.

* Eliminates travel for short or routine hearings * Offers flexible scheduling options, especially when travel for multiple parties is involved * Minimizes security issues * Replaces the telephone for conferences, allowing more interaction between parties * Moves the docket along * Provides a contingency for keeping judges safe and off of dangerous roads * Saves time and money

Tori Kricken, staff attorney for the Second Judicial District Court, spoke favorably of her experience using video conferencing and highlighted scenarios for its use. First, she noted that video conferencing lends itself well to witness testimonies and evidentiary hearings. A telephone call fails to show the body language of the witness, whereas video conferencing divulges these important cues. Evidentiary hearings are better suited for this observational media as well. Ms. Kricken commented on the particularly high use of video conferencing for juvenile cases. The boys' and girls' schools and juvenile detention facilities all have access to video conferencing equipment. The juvenile, parents, counselors, attorneys, and others may all be present regardless of location. The personal interaction in these delicate cases provides juveniles with needed family and community connections.

Judge Dan Forgey Circuit Court of the Third Judicial District, is one of the several circuit court judges in Wyoming who uses video conferencing equipment. Video conferencing works well in Sweetwater County, as the jail is distanced from the courts. Video conferencing arraignments for misdemeanors and initial appearances for felonies...