Judge Christofferson next suggested a letter be sent to Doug Mattson who additionally raised this issue. The letter should cite law that the Judiciary cannot pay and that the attorney general is obligated. Chief Justice VandeWalle asked staff to talk to the AG's office and report back at the next meeting. Caseflow Management Seminar Judge Schmalenberger reported on the course he attended on management practices. It was taught that all courts, not just urban courts, need good caseflow management.
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.