Editor’s Note: Tech Talk is a regular feature of the ABI’s Technology and Intellectual Property Committee’s Newsletter that highlights existing and/or emerging technology that might be useful to the bankruptcy community. Reference to a particular company or product is for example purposes only, and is not intended to promote or endorse the product or company.
Cloud computing has been getting a lot of attention recently as a way to save money and time, as well as to facilitate better communication and collaboration. A Florida-based company has developed two “In-the-Clouds” applications applied to mediation and depositions, respectively.
“Mediation-in-the-Clouds” allows mediators and lawyers to remotely attend and conduct a mediation, which could reduce or eliminate travel costs and facilitate attendance by decision-makers and legal counsel as needed. The system is able to connect multiple users without having to be in the same location. The web interface allows mediators to connect parties telephonically or by video. The system allows the mediator to put parties into their own private rooms (example, a plaintiff and defendant) so that the mediator can meet with them individually and then bring them together as needed. The service has been used in Florida, as well as in the Fifth and Eleventh Circuit Courts of Appeals. A “how-to” video is available at http://mediationintheclouds.com/how-it-works/, and additional information is available at http://mediationintheclouds.com/contact-us/.
A similar service provided by the company is called “Deposition-in-the-Clouds.” This product provides a web-based platform for attorneys and legal professionals to remotely take depositions and have transcripts taken by a certified court reporter provided within 24 hours. A demonstration of this product is available at www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRtVqUxif9I. Visit www.depositionintheclouds.com/‎ for more information.
While the preference may be to conduct mediations and take depositions in person, these and similar services could provide a viable and cost-effective alternative to the bankruptcy community in the appropriate circumstances.