Ga. R. Sup. Ct. 22.1

As amended through October 9, 2024

Rule 22.1 - Audiovisual Media Use in Trials

For purposes of this rule, the term "media" shall include both audio and video files.

(A) Proponents shall use their best reasonable efforts to tender files in a format that is playable in a current version of a commonly used media player, such as Windows® or VLC media playerT.

(B) The files must be saved on a new or completely formatted USB flash drive that contains only the media files being tendered.

(C) Proponents of evidence who require a proprietary player and codecs shall make an effort to convert the media format to one playable by Windows Media Player or VLC media player or any other format designated by the Administrative Office of the Courts. The converted file shall be of similar quality that fairly and accurately depicts the recorded events. If the file cannot be converted, it will be up to the sound discretion of the trial judge to decide what formats are acceptable.

(D) If a proprietary player or codec is necessary to play the file, those files shall be included on the same USB drive as the media files or download instructions shall be included.

(E) Multiple files may be submitted on one USB drive but shall be titled in a way that makes it clear what exhibits they are.

(F) The trial judge, upon sufficient notice to the parties, may require that the media files be presented to court personnel a minimum time before the hearing or trial is scheduled to take place to ensure an effective presentation.

(G) Parties frequently appearing in court, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, public defenders, court reporters, and other attorneys are encouraged to contract with vendors to select products that produce output in commonly playable media formats creating non-proprietary formatted files.

(H) Nothing in this rule shall prohibit trial courts from mandating procedures by court order that would require the parties to upload media files to a secure server or case management system that would facilitate playback and transmission to the appellate courts.

Ga. R. Sup. Ct. 22.1

Adopted July 13, 2023, effective 8/24/2023.