Courtrooms Might Go Digital

Move over audio cassettes -- the era of digital sound recording could soon include Nova Scotia's 87 courtrooms.

The Department of Justice is seeking competitive bids for the installation of a software-based digital recording system, which would see bulky audio cassettes replaced by computer audio files and CDs.

"We'll consider phasing in digital audio over the next three years, if it can be done cost-effectively, with clear benefits to users in our court system," said Justice Minister Michael Baker. "We'll see what potential solutions come forward from the tender process, and decide from there."

The use of CDs would drastically cut the waiting time for audio recordings -- from about two weeks for audio cassettes to one day for CDs. Judges, lawyers and court staff will find digital recordings easier to listen to because of the superior sound quality. And with digital sound, all copies retain the superior quality of the original recording.

The digital project would be paid for within Court Services' existing budget. Installation of the new software and equipment could begin as early as this fall, depending on the quality of the bids received.

The tender closes on April 28.