Courtroom Technology
Courtroom Sound Systems
All four circuit court courtrooms and the B-15 commissioner courtroom have audio sound systems which include high quality speakers and microphones located at the bench, witness stand, counsel tables, and clerk’s desk to enhance communication in the courtroom. The microphones are equipped with mute buttons to allow attorney/client communication. There is also a wireless microphone and lavalier mics available in each courtroom. The court officials’ PCs have been interfaced with the sound system for higher clarity with Zoom hearings.
Public Access Zoom Workstation
Manitowoc County has made available one public access Zoom workstation in Room 213 (located on the second floor of the courthouse) for individuals to utilize to participate in Zoom court hearings when they may not have their own electronic equipment available to do so.
Public Access Computers
The Clerk of Court office has two CCAP public access computers available for parties to view court cases and documents, and also purchase any desired copies at the statutory copy fee rate of $1.25 per page. For confidential cases, authorized parties to the case may be assigned a temporary access code (TAC) for viewing and purchasing documents.
Hearing Loop
All three circuit courtrooms and the B-15 courtroom have hearing loops installed, specifically designed for each courtroom, as well as assistive hearing devices available for individuals who may be hard of hearing. The hearing loop system provides hearing assistance to individuals with hearing aids equipped with a “T” coil, whereby all sound is transmitted wirelessly from the sound system directly to their hearing aids, delivering crisp, clear sound while reducing or eliminating background noise. For individuals who are hard of hearing, not using a hearing aid, they can use a headset and receiver which is either worn around their neck or held, where volume can be adjusted to personal preference, giving them the same benefit as the “T” coil hearing aid. These units are available for use in all courtrooms upon request.
ZOOM Video Conference Capability
All circuit courtrooms have Zoom video conference capability. Courtroom phones are interfaced with the sound system.
“For the Record” (FTR) Digital Audio Recording System in all Courtrooms
A digital audio recording system to allow for complete capture of the court record which is used to record hearings when a (steno) court reporter is not available to take the record. This recording system is integrated directly into the courtroom’s sound system. Recordings are archived into the county’s file server. Authorized FTR users (court officials) have access to archived recordings. Copies of audio files can be requested and provided on a CD, or a request could be made for a transcript of the proceeding, which would be completed by a court reporter. Fees apply to both types of requests.
Printers
All three circuit courtrooms and the B-15 courtroom are equipped with CCAP network printers.
Media Cart
- VHS/DVD player
- 32” flat screen TV
Equipment reservations can be made through judicial assistants.
Data Ports
Data ports have been installed on top of each counsel table in all three circuit courtrooms and the B-15 courtroom to provide convenient power access for laptops and other electronic devices which may be utilized in court.
HD Security Cameras in Courtrooms
All three circuit courtrooms and the B-15 courtroom are outfitted with HD security cameras to allow monitoring of courtroom activity by the judges, judicial assistants, Clerk of Court, and bailiffs in remote locations.
Simultaneous Interpreter Equipment Available
Grant money through the State Interpreting Program has allowed for the purchase of Williams Sound simultaneous interpreting equipment which can be made available to interpreters serving Manitowoc County. The equipment consists of a portable FM transmitter, three receivers, headset w/microphone for person interpreting, three headsets for parties, and a 2-bay battery charger.