Good semi-professional camera with higher picture quality?

Hello,
I am developing a series of videos for a state's legal system. As of now, we have no camera. Does anyone have any good reccommendations for a semi-professional, affordable camera with a higher picture quality than a normal consumer camcorder would have? Obviously, price pays a factor in this. If I can't find a volunteer videographer, I will have to do the filming/taping myself, and I am not a videographer by trade. I will also be planning to edit the footage using a final cut editing system. And if I have to do the videographer, I would like to use a camera that isn't too complicated.
Thanks a lot!

the reason is that many of the online stores are scam artists selling grey market cameras with no extra parts and no warranty
as well if you try to order the "$1600" camera and don't want any of the extras they will force you to get (which come included with cameras from reputable dealers) suddenly the camera is out of stock and they don't know when it will be in, but you can get the US model (which is what the reputable dealers sell for 3000-3600) for about 4000, plus shipping
to get an understanding about GOOD realistic prices check out http://www.bhphotovideo.com
DAVE
www.proapptips.com

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