Information Technology in the Judicial Procedures

Challenges to the Use of Videoconferencing for Hearings and Trials

Abstract

Before the COVID-19 disease, videoconferencing was used in judicial proceedings, mainly in specific circumstances. During the pandemic, its use became widespread as an alternative to face-to-face hearings. It is already recognized that videoconferencing reduces costs and time spent in judicial proceedings and broadens access to justice. Although, important criticism refers to the possible violation of justice values. In this paper, we use content analyses of 25 academic research to describe the main concerns relating to virtual judicial hearings. Two concern dimensions emerged from our review. The first is related to problems that affect the good use of videoconferencing, and the second relates to the use of videoconferencing per se.