ABSTRACT
In this chapter, we review the role of the courts in the criminal justice system and explore the ways technology has improved efficiency and streamlined the entire process. The judicial process is complicated in that technology was not relevant when our founding fathers created the blueprint for our justice system. Technology has created significant challenges to the Fourth Amendment. In the past, the need for a search warrant on a cell phone or whether you could electronically submit a police report was not an issue. The technology did not exist. We examine the historical elements of various constitutional amendments and their effects on technology. Surveillance technology and its relationship to the court system are discussed because they have a direct impact on public safety. Finally, we also review the innovative technology related to the court system, including kiosks and virtual courtrooms.
