Guiding principles for court technology

A roadmap for post-pandemic court technology

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the digital transformation of courts, ushering in remote hearings, electronic filings, and online dispute resolution. The "Guiding Principles for Post-Pandemic Court Technology" report emphasizes that courts must build upon recent innovations instead of reverting to old processes.

This report from the Conference of Chief Justices and Conference of State Court Administrators prioritizes user-friendly technology, accessibility, and data-driven decision-making as a way for courts to enhance efficiency and fairness. The report outlines principles to ensure that technology supports due process and the user experience while maintaining transparency and security.

Put tech to work for your court

Here are some broad guidelines for creating high-quality court technology:

• Protect due process and equal access: Technology must be fair, transparent, and accessible for everyone, including those with limited English skills
• Try user-centered design: Mobile-friendly platforms, plain-language legal resources, and digital self-help tools can enhance the user experience
• Deploy data-driven innovation: Courts should be willing to pilot, test, and refine new technologies based on real-world feedback
• Adopt a remote-first approach: Expand remote services for hearings, legal assistance, and case management to reduce barriers and increase efficiency
• Invest in tech: Court budgets should prioritize continuous improvements, cybersecurity, and collaboration with public and private partners
   

The unexpected disruption of the pandemic challenged courts to embrace digital transformation and remote solutions. Continued innovation and refinement of technology-driven solutions can help your court enhance accessibility, efficiency, and fairness, ensuring that advanced technology becomes a permanent feature of our modern justice system rather than a temporary response to a crisis.

Read the Report