About Our Task Force
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about unprecedented change in the ways that court proceedings are conducted in Connecticut. The use of virtual proceedings during the COVID-19 pandemic has promoted safety, increased efficiency and access to justice, and presents the potential for long-term benefits to litigants, attorneys, and for the proper administration of justice. The broad-based implementation of these technological changes, in a very short time period, also highlights our collective potential for rapid change, and presents the possibility of other technological advancements in the conduct of court proceedings in the future.
In addition to virtual court proceedings, the implementation of other technological changes, such as text messaging and other digital communication tools, virtual and artificial intelligence assistance for completion of basic court forms, may present opportunities for a more efficient, accessible, and “user-friendly” court experience. The Task Force will also be mindful of “the digital divide”, and be sensitive to situations in which court proceedings and interactions are best conducted in-person and using traditional methods. As proceedings shift back to physical court houses, the Task Force will also consider the technological facilities and capacity available within those facilities, to promote enhanced use of technology.
After appropriate study, the CBA Pandemic Recovery and the Future of Court Technology Task Force will consider and make recommendations to the Connecticut Judicial Branch on the short and long-term future use of technology in Connecticut court proceedings. In developing these recommendations, the Task Force shall consider the perspectives and interests of attorneys, litigants, and the public in the proper administration of justice. The recommendations shall be tailored to the relevant considerations presented by different substantive practice areas, particularly those proceedings in which there are significant numbers of self-represented litigants. The Task Force shall, after proper study and approval by the CBA, convey its recommendations to the Connecticut Judicial Branch in a written report.