June 2002

Realm of Science Fiction Becomes Reality

Law & Order

A good lawyer must be an effective communicator. In the past, that meant polished oratory skills and a solid knowledge of the law. Today’s legal professionals can turn to Lynbrook-based DOAR for state-of-the-art technology and services that support litigation preparation and courtroom presentations.

Samuel Solomon chose DOAR, the Hebrew word for “post office,” in naming his communications firm, which offered audio-visual systems to schools, corporations and governmental agencies. That was in 1989, when the future of electronic communications was just being visualized. Four years later, Solomon began focusing on legal markets and by 1996, realized it was time to bring the newest technology to the courtroom.

The result was DOAR’s Digital Evidence Presentation System (DEPS), allowing and integrated presentation of documentary, physical, and computer-based evidence. Looking like an oversized podium, a DEPS unit typically contains a laptop computer, VCR, 3-D camera, and printer. Solomon’s invention, available for sale or lease, is now being used in courtrooms, law offices and graduate schools around the country.

DEPS is just the first of the company’s technological advances. This spring, to showcase the range of systems and services it makes available, DOAR unveiled it s Digital Court Facility, which features a high-tech hearing room and other court-related facilities. The wood-paneled courtroom, measuring 30’ by 45’, was designed according the federal specifications with a judge’s bench, clerk’s bench, jury box, counsel tables, and visitors’ gallery. Judges and lawyers alike may use the room to rehearse for trial, examine case strategy and conduct legal research while using the latest in courtroom technology.

DOAR is helping retrofit state and federal courthouses, including the new U.S. District Court in Central Islip, with much of the new equipment it makes available at its headquarters.

A second branch of the firm offers high-tech litigation support and trial services. DOAR’s clients include some of the largest law firms on the East Coast and its 100 employees typically handle between 25 to 30 cases at a time.

“We’re not looking to impress judges and juries with this technology,” says DOAR Chairman Sam Solomon. “Society’s expectations are higher today; people expect PowerPoint when they see a presentation. Seeing, as well as hearing, helps an audience better understand and remember information. That’s what we want to achieve in the courtroom: more effective communication.”