As you may be aware, there are many federal grants and recovery funds available. In particular there are two funds that can be used for technology improvements – the CARES Act (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security) and the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Act. These funds are still viable, with money available for the asking.

The CARES Act, separate legislation from the ARP, makes funding available to state, local and tribal governments navigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Costs must be incurred between March 1, 2020, and December 31, 2021.

As part of the American Rescue Plan (ARP), the Technology Modernization Fund (TMF) offers courts the opportunity to invest in IT modernization projects and projects to improve service delivery (including those that will benefit the public affected by the COVID-19 pandemic — see the TMF webpage for information.) In these cases, courts can apply their funding to IT and AV projects that will increase and enhance their services for the public, through upgrades or replacement of those areas. Costs must be incurred between January 27, 2020, and December 31, 2024.

There are several ways that Nomad AV Systems can help courts in a COVID-infused environment. From remote participation, to hybrid scenarios, to in-person proceedings – a Nomad AV solution can handle those scenarios and everything in-between to conduct court business.

Additionally, the use of AV systems can offer speedier trials. Evidence presented visually helps juries to more easily follow along with attorney presentations, to see and understand what is being explained. This leads to the effective dispensation of justice through improved comprehension.

As a result of speedier trials, court efficiencies will be gained, allowing the backlog or overflow of trials waiting on the docket to move along faster. Technology offers ways for attorneys to present evidence quickly and clearly.

Numerous grants and funding opportunities are currently available. Several of our court customers have been able to secure grants or recovery funds for technology improvements within their courtrooms. They ordered a new evidence presentation system with the funds, citing this would improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their trial courts. Be sure to check with your purchasing department and other sources to secure these types of funds.

Let us know how we can help you move forward with upgrading or improving AV solutions in your court.