Assembly Bill 447 proposes an amendment to Wisconsin Statute 885.60 (2) (d) regarding the use of videoconferencing technology in civil actions. Currently, defendants in criminal cases and respondents in certain civil actions have the right to be physically present in the courtroom during their proceedings. If they object to the use of videoconferencing for proceedings they are entitled to attend in person, the court must sustain that objection. For other proceedings, the court has discretion in handling objections.

The bill introduces a new exception that allows the court to exercise discretion regarding objections made by respondents concerning the testimony of an expert witness via videoconference technology in specific cases related to admissions, placements, or commitments, including involuntary commitment and protective placement proceedings. This means that even if a respondent has the right to be present in person, the court can decide whether to allow the expert's testimony to be presented through videoconferencing. The legal language reflects these changes by deleting the requirement for the court to sustain objections in certain cases and inserting provisions that grant the court discretion in these specific circumstances.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 885.60(2)(d), 885.60