Video Courtroom

There is one courtroom, in the Montgomery County Common Pleas Court, Probate Division, that is equipped with a video recording system: Courtroom Two for Magistrates David Farmer, David White, Joseph Gallagher and Arvin Miller.

The system is the latest in state-of-the-art courtroom technology, whereby, a central control unit is linked to voice-activated microphones strategically placed at the judicial bench, attorneys' tables and witness stand. The system microphones activate when an individual starts to speak and a video camera "slaved" to each microphone automatically focuses on the individual as it records both video and audio onto a data storage unit.  Every image displayed and every sound that is heard is captured into the record.

An important benefit of the system is the ability to play back any portion of the court record during the proceedings. This affords the Judge, Magistrate or attorneys the opportunity to review any portion of the "record" at any time.  The system also provides assisted listening devices for individuals needing hearing assistance.

The digital storage unit ensures that the records are immediately made available at the close of the trial day.  Attorneys may request the record on digital disk.  The digital storage device also features both read and write capability, allowing the court to make a disk from the original disk recording on demand.  Time and date indicators are burned into the recordings to preserve record authenticity.

Evidence Presentations

Evidence presentation equipment is available.  In Courtroom Two, the equipment has the ability to project evidence, such as, three dimensional objects or documents, onto a screen located in the courtroom.  These Evidence Presentations are recorded along with court proceedings.

Please call the Judicial Assistants for any additional information about the video equipment.

For a form to purchase a CD for a court proceeding click here.