Department of Justice & Community Safety Victoria

Transforming the way courtrooms operate, the Department of Justice & Community Safety (DJCS) has introduced remote witness rooms that empower witnesses to provide their best evidence.

These rooms have been thoughtfully designed to enhance functionality and user experience. The tables in these rooms are equipped with electronically adjustable legs, accommodating up to three people, including the presence of a court dog. This demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity, providing a supportive environment for all participants involved.

To foster concentration and a calm atmosphere, soothing imagery is placed on the wall facing the witness, in line with the screen placement. This arrangement ensures that the imagery remains exclusive to the witness, keeping distractions out of the courtroom’s view.

The rear wall of the remote witness rooms is painted in a soft green colour, carefully chosen to present the witness and their skin tone in the best possible light when captured on camera. This colour selection optimises lighting and contrast, ensuring clear and accurate visual representation.

Video screens mounted on flexible arms are easily adjusted to ensure witnesses have a clear view and feel comfortable while giving their testimonies. Moreover, the screens can be discreetly hidden behind curtains, allowing the rooms to be easily transformed into interview spaces. This versatility maximizes the functionality of the remote witness rooms, catering to various needs while serving their main purpose.

The integration of these meticulously planned design elements showcases DJCS’s dedication to innovative and user-friendly spaces within the legal system. These features not only enhance testimony delivery but also prioritise the comfort, inclusivity, and accuracy of the entire judicial process.