Staff members from Cedar County Court gathered around newly installed audio-visual equipment in the courtroom to learn how to operate the state-of-the-art technology, marking the Judicial Branch’s first installation of the new courtroom audio-visual technology.

“We were interested in the project and the capabilities it allows the Court to use now and into the future,” said Cedar County Clerk of District Court Janet Wiechelman.

Cedar County is the first of nearly 200 trial court courtrooms to upgrade audio-visual equipment through the Nebraska Judicial Branch courtroom technology upgrade project.  Courthouses and judicial centers across the state will undergo a similar transformation based on their needs and existing technology infrastructure.

The goal of the project is to

• Increase consistency between trial courts statewide in audio-visual systems available to use in conducting court.
• Ensure all courts have the best quality audio amplification and capture of the court record to ensure all court participants and observers can hear proceedings. 
• Provide all courts with cameras and displays that facilitate fully remote and hybrid hearings.
• Ensure all courts have the technology necessary to manage and present digital evidence.

The Administrative Office Information Technology Division staff are managing the project through Chief Information Officer Chad Cornelius. Former Deputy Administrator Jennifer Rasmussen is working on contract to manage the project with installers from CTI Technology.

“Everyone from CTI was great to work with throughout the installation and follow-up training.  The crew was very knowledgeable and continued to answer my questions as they arose,” remarked Cedar County Clerk Magistrate Diane Sudbeck. She continued, “It is very easy to operate and a great improvement to our audio-video capabilities in the courts.”

Photos:

Deputy Clerk of District Court Heather Jones, Assistant Clerk Janelle Gubbels, Clerk of District Court Janet Wiechelman, and Clerk Magistrate Diane Sudbeck, observe as CTI installer Nick Thiele demonstrates technology.