Clerk of Courts introduces new automated virtual assistant, chatbot

The Clerk of Courts, Russ Joseph, has introduced Athena, the new automated virtual assistant and chatbot Friday.

Athena will make the clerk’s office more accessible to citizens by being available 24/7 to answer many of the most frequently asked questions, according to a release.

“I truly believe this tool can be used to help remove another barrier to justice for many citizens who find it difficult to contact our office during normal business hours. Many of the questions we currently receive by phone and email can easily be answered by Athena,” said Russ Joseph.

The new virtual assistant was developed by the clerk’s IT staff using Microsoft Cognitive Services software, read the release. It is also connected to the public record information (PRO) system and can tell users the status of a case and can link them to the PRO site.

“Athena can answer questions from each of our 5 divisions. So, whether it’s a question about how to title your car, what you need to get a passport, or how to pay your traffic ticket, Athena should be your first stop,” said Joseph.

To test the new virtual assistant, visit mcclerkofcourts.org.

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