Barrister plugs into cyber trials using satellite links

Traditional courtrooms could be on their way out in some cases because of the development of cyber trials, a barrister doing pioneering work in the field has predicted.Jeremy Barnett, a barrister and chairman of Courtcom Ltd, has linked up with Leeds University to develop a virtual courtroom, which will be linked to the similar Courtroom 21 project in the US.The technology will mean that trials can take place with judges, lawyers, witnesses and parties scattered all over the world but connected via satellite links.Mr Barnett has already acted in a nine-hour mock trial set in the US, where he cross-examined a witness in Australia directly from Leeds University.

This was broadcast live on the Internet.The advantage of the virtual courtroom is that participants can take part in the trial from remote locations, Mr Barnett explained.

The main saving is in time and efficiency, especially in multi-national litigation as you dont have to fly people in.The room could lead to great savings in both criminal and civil trials, Mr Barnett said.

But he added that he envisaged the real benefits of virtual courts lying in alternative dispute resolution, as the high value of claims would make it cost-effective.Professor Clive Walker, head of the law department at Leeds University, said he hoped the technology will eventually make the whole court procedure more transparent.This is not just about making litigation more efficient or fun, he said.

It is a great opportunity to open up the courts to the public through informative, educational Web sites.Paula Rohan