He also suggested that the Legal XML initiative constitutes one segment of a larger series of programs. For instance, court efforts in developing functional IT standards could serve as a model for probation, parole, corrections, and law enforcement. A discussion regarding the standards process and how this effort fits with NIST and Global needs to be held. If we have acceptance of the charter and the work plan, more groups will be willing to participate. Todd Vincent agreed that there is a need for harmonized standards.
Timing is critical.
Eddie O'Brien suggested that a law enforcement group be created with Tim Sweeney as chair. Dennis Moran observed that, while law enforcement already has been developing standards, the standards provided by law enforcement and courts need to harmonize. Courts have an independent process. Terrie Bousquin proposed that more parties than courts and law enforcement need to be involved. She also reminded the group that the development of a court filing standard moved with lightning speed, saying that the open process was not as overwhelming as it might be perceived.