Early intervention is necessary as is constant oversight of cases. Differential case management works well. A fast track for fast-track cases should be developed. An early trial date should be established for all cases. It was also taught and made clear in the course that continuances are not a judicial question, they are a management decision.
Continuances cause extra work for staff and disproportionately delay cases.
Cases should never be scheduled more than 90 days out. Judge Schmalenberger suggested UCIS can give management information that is necessary for good case management but suggested that reports should be given to judges in a simplified form for ease of use. He suggested that in North Dakota we need to analyze our system and to audit procedures that are being followed. Policies should be analyzed and determined if they aid or hinder good case management. Procedures should be created to develop a commitment to judicial management of cases.