Unlocking Justice: Why Defense Teams Must Demand Axon’s Auto-Generated Transcripts

In today’s criminal cases, video and audio evidence can make or break a defense. Whether it’s a body-worn camera recording, a jail call, or a witness interview, that raw digital evidence often holds critical details. But here’s the problem—reviewing hours of footage without transcripts is slow, expensive, and prone to error. That’s where Axon’s automatic transcription feature becomes vital—and where the State’s duty to disclose comes into sharp focus.

The motion you need to file is designed for one purpose: to ensure defense counsel, investigators, and paralegals gain full access to all auto-generated transcripts created by the Axon Justice discovery platform. These transcripts are not some luxury. They’re part of the digital chain of discovery and fall squarely within the scope of what the State must share.

What Should the Motion Argue?

Your motion seeks a court order compelling the State to share any transcripts automatically produced by Axon when it processes discovery material. Here's why it matters:

• The transcripts already exist. Axon Justice automatically creates them when audio/video files are uploaded.
• They are not work product. Unlike notes or strategies prepared by prosecutors, these transcripts are machine-generated and stored in the same system used for discovery.
• They fall under mandatory discovery. North Carolina law (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 15A-903) requires disclosure of all written or recorded statements relevant to the case—these transcripts qualify.
• They improve efficiency and accuracy. Reviewing evidence with a searchable transcript dramatically improves defense preparation and speeds up investigations.

Why This Matters for Defense Teams

Too often, prosecutors simply leave the “transcript” box unchecked when sharing discovery through Axon. Whether by oversight or design, this omission withholds crucial information. Without transcripts, defense teams must spend hours manually reviewing media, risking missed statements or delays in case preparation.

Demanding these transcripts helps level the playing field—especially in high-stakes cases where every word counts.

Want a Sample Motion Template?

If you’re a defense attorney, paralegal, or investigator and you want a ready-to-use copy of this motion template, we’re happy to help. Contact us today and we’ll send you a free sample motion.