We anticipate substantial changes in how we plan, budget and coordinate efforts with other branches of government. Courts are free to issue their own contracts and negotiate with court employees. County counsel services may be withheld, forcing the court to obtain representation elsewhere. Similarly, the relationship between county data processing and the court, especially at the network level, will undergo constant evaluation and analysis. Our success in this new environment hinges on our ability to recognize and capture the opportunities while still recognizing a solid relationship with our host county.
Courts are focused on increasing public access to the judiciary.
Undoubtedly, technology can radically enhance our abilities in these areas. However, the rapid deployment of technology is hampered by a host of obstacles and challenges. The public has a limitless thirst for information, and the court is a repository of a wealth of information. The debate over the creation, storage and access to electronic court records rages. The widespread acceptance of Internet technology by the public and its increased use by other branches of government has fostered similar public expectations for court services and information.