Courtroom Technology

Audio Visual Link (AVL)

Audio-Visual Link (AVL) is a form of video conferencing using cameras and television screens, that allows two-way communication to a remote location. AVL in the Local Court is primarily used to conduct bail hearings for defendants, however, is also used to take evidence from witnesses not able to attend the location.

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. Remote witness facilities allow vulnerable witnesses, such as children or victims of sexual assault and/or domestic and family violence, to give evidence from a room that is separate from the Courtroom.

Anyone who has concerns about giving evidence in a Courtroom should speak to the prosecutor or their lawyer about making a request to use remote witness facilities.

Electronic evidence

Increasingly, evidence produced in court proceedings is in an electronic format. The list below provides information on the equipment available for evidence playback within regional New South Wales courtrooms. The circular provides the standards for the format of electronic evidence, and the final document provides more detailed advice on preparation for the presentation of electronic evidence.

It is the responsibility of the parties to an action to ensure that their electronic evidence is compatible with the courtroom playback equipment.

Related documents

Equipment available for evidence playback in regional New South Wales courtrooms.

Circular 2009-25, Law Enforcement Standard for Digital Evidence issued by the Department of Premier and Cabinet provides the formats permitted for use in courts.

Department of Justice requirements for Electronic Evidence playback in New South Wales courts.