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State Court Profiles | Judge | Race And Ethnicity In The United States Census
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State Court Systems Profiles
Compiled by: The Office of the State Courts Administrator Strategic Planning Unit August 25th, 2010
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State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance Image - Alabama Judicial Branch
State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance Image - Arizona Judicial Council and Standing Committees
State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance Image - California Judicial Branch
State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance Image - Minnesota Judicial Branch Administrative Structure
State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance
State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance Image - New York Court Structure Image - New York Administrative Structure
I.	II.	III.	State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance
State Overview and Demographics State Court System Governance Image - Virginia Judicial Branch
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00% 3.gov 2. State Overview and Demographics 4.708 5. Census at http://quickfacts.10% 13. so also are included in applicable race categories **Z indicates less than ½ of 1% Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.S.70% 24.census.Alabama I.40% 2.90% 6.708.00% **Z% 1.50% 1.40% 26.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.10% Other % *Hispanics may be of any race.6 4 2.49 87.80% 1 .00% 68.90% 0.90% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial 71.
Alabama II. Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts Court of Civil Appeals Court of Criminal Appeals Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Civil Appeals Court of Criminal Appeals Supreme Court Justices GU = Gubernatorial appointment PE = Partisan election GU GU GU PE PE PE GU Full Term PE 1 Number of Justices 9 1 1 Number of Judges 5 5 41 circuits 67 counties 68 districts 68 263 Number of Judges 144 103 68 272 2 . State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction District Courts Probate Courts Municipal Courts Quasi-judicial Officers Some municipalities have their own courts. while other municipal courts are part of the state court system.
Administrative Office of the Courts. Department of Justice. State of Alabama III.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics.ncsconline.Alabama Terms of Office: (years) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Civil Appeals Court of Criminal Appeals Supreme Court Justices Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Civil Appeals Court of Criminal Appeals Supreme Court Justices CS = Court selection S = Seniority PE = Partisan election Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Civil Appeals Court of Criminal Appeals Supreme Court Justices 6 6 6 6 S CS PE CS 6 6 6 6 Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.S. Governance 9 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: X 3 . U.
Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) & AOC Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: X X X X X L/C C L/C C L/C L/C C C X 4 .Alabama Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: Local courts are not allowed to make rules.
with input from the Judicial Study Commission and the circuit and district courts. i. Appellate courts have separate budgets and financial management systems.Percent of budget from: State Local/Federal Fees and costs Other: 75% 4% 21% % These numbers are for AOC and trial courts.e. the Administrative Director of the Courts (AOC).Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: The AOC director and other directors have input into trial court budget recommendations..Alabama Funding/budget Authority . AOC Division Directors. the Governor develops recommended budget and submits to Legislature. and various AOC Committees. judges and clerks Education committees Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: X X X 5 . The appellate courts (appeals courts. sometimes the Chief Justice. Planning for the Court System: The Chief Justice is in charge of planning for the court system. •	•	•	Operational planning is conducted by AOC/Division Directors Long-range or strategic planning is conducted by the Judicial Study Commission Ad hoc or situational planning is conducted by various Unified Judicial System committees. The AOC does planning for the AOC and the state trial courts. Fiscal authority . Budget recommendations from trial courts and appellate courts are submitted to the Governor. planning participants include the Chief Justice. Supreme Court) are autonomous.
6 . clarity. videoconferencing and video arraignments. e. etc. Section 12-5-10). The Chief Justice's Chief of Staff and others in the AOC are registered lobbyists to ensure that the court's positions on various bills are known. AOC Division Directors and Presiding Circuit Judges also part of branch leadership. . No funding source earmarked for technology per se. Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. Section 12-2-30).g. e-citations. I.Alabama Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: IT is a line item in the (trial) court budget. judges.it is a major component of decision making. who conduct planning for IT. court staff. decision-making): A great deal of input is sought from trial courts. they do what they can with what they have. and user fees may also be used. Leadership above. There has been a big push for to go paperless. General Fund appropriations are made by the Legislature to the AOC. judges. budget cuts have made it difficult to undertake new projects. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. the Administrative Director of courts is appointed by the Chief Justice (Code of Alabama. e-filing. There is an interagency technology committee including judges. various state and federal grants. we can't meet all their needs. Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: The Chief Justice makes a State of the Judiciary Address to a joint session of the legislature at the beginning of the regular Legislative session and appears before the House General Fund Committee. representatives from other state agencies. shared understanding of leadership roles): The Chief Justice is the head of the Judicial Branch (Code of Alabama.. Everyone wants more staff. See III. it is a pay-as-you go process based on available funds.
members include: •	•	•	•	Six members of the House of Representatives. Structure and Membership: The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court chairs the commission.Alabama Is the entity(ies) involved in other political activities? Yes No If yes. criminal rehabilitation. The Judicial Study Commission is as good as their membership and their commitment to these goals. Six members of the Senate. criminal punishment methods and procedures and all matters relating directly or indirectly to the administration of justice in Alabama and make recommendations pertaining thereto. It has been beneficial also in helping acquaint legislators with the work of the judiciary. The Lieutenant Governor. innovative strategies must be employed. 7 . the administration of justice in Alabama. (Code of Alabama. Members of the judicial conference. X Other committees: •	•	•	Legislative Steering Committee Technology Committee Numerous other committees appointed by the AOC Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: The Judicial Study Commission is a great vehicle to develop long range goals and to study the effectiveness of the courts and determine where gaps in services exist or the need for new. that has helped with budgets in the past few years. and a member of the staff of the Attorney General. what are they? The Administrative Director of the Courts serves as a liaison with the executive and legislative branches of state government. and. 12-5-10) Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Judicial Study Commission Role: This commission shall continuously study the judicial system of the state. they are creative and dedicated to the task. legal advisor to the Governor. Speaker of the House of Representatives. the courts of the state.
and. 8 . Evaluate practices and procedures of the courts and make recommendations concerning the number of judges and other personnel required for the efficient administration of justice.Alabama Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts & AOC Describe: Budget reviewed by Chief Justice and submitted to Legislature Judicial Branch Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts & AOC	Describe: Judicial Branch Planning Functions for: Trial Courts & AOC	Describe: Judicial Branch Staffing Court Committees: Yes	No If yes. Trial court administration. which court committees? •	•	•	Legislative Steering Committee Technology Committee Numerous other committees appointed by the AOC X X X X The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: •	•	•	•	•	Assisting the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court with his duties as the chief administrative officer of the trial courts of the state. Coordinate and conduct studies and projects related to the improvement of the administration of justice and trial courts. Make recommendations for the improvement of the operations of the Unified Justice System.
org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. Overall. though there are times when not everyone is pleased with what we do. difficult economic times foster some resentment and dissatisfaction in general. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. She is outstanding in her dedication to the trial courts and budgets and understands their needs at a local level. At the request of the Chief Justice. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www. the court system is happy with the AOC and our administration of the third branch of government. in 2007 the AOC developed and conducted a satisfaction survey for trial court officials. Overall.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. the survey yielded very favorable comments and few critical remarks.Alabama Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: The level of satisfaction with the lines of authority is good. and the general public on various aspects of the court. U. Our current Chief Justice is a former trial court judge so she has a great deal of credibility among the judges and they trust her. State of Alabama 9 .S. employees. users of the system.ncsconline.
Alabama Image .Alabama Judicial Branch 10 .
I. State Overview and Demographics 6,595,778 28.60% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other 86.50% 58.40% 4.20% 30.10% 4.90% 2.50% 0.20% 1.80% %
*Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100,000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.S. Census at http://quickfacts.census.gov 2.64 45.2 9 12.80% 25.90% 7.90% 26.30% 13.30%
II. State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Superior Court Tax Court-Admin Agency Appeals Limited Jurisdiction Justice of the Peace Court Municipal Court Quasi-judicial Officers In addition to the judicial positions above, there are also 97 full-time and part-time judges pro tempore, commissioners, and hearing officers in the Superior Court. Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Superior Court Justice of the Peace Municipal GN or VA CO CC GN or NP PE CC Full Term 1 Number of Justices 5 2 divisions Number of Judges 22 87 precincts 81 cities/towns 87 154 full-time and part-time 15 counties 1 174 full-time 1 Number of Judges
Intermediate Appellate Court Judges GN GN GN Supreme Court Justices GN NP = Non-partisan election GN = Gubernatorial appointment from judicial nominating commission VA = Varies CO = County board/commission appointment CC = City or town council/commission appointment PE = Partisan election Terms of Office: Trial Court Judges Superior Court Justice of the Peace Municipal Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices VA = Varies Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Superior Court Justice of the Peace Municipal Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices CS = Court selection SC = Supreme court appointments Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/ Justices) Trial Court Judges Superior Court Justice of the Peace Municipal 5 2 LD SC CS CS CS CS 4 4 VA 6 6
Arizona Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices LD = Locally determined Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.ncsconline. State of Arizona III.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. Governance 5 1 5 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution X X L/C L/C C C C C C L/C 14 .S. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. U.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.
"The supreme court shall have administrative supervision over all the courts of the state. or repeal code sections by administrative order. After comments are received. repeal. which is then placed on the agenda for the Arizona Judicial Council.Arizona Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: According to Rule 28 (Rules of the Arizona Supreme Court): Any person. The Arizona Judicial Council recommends whether to recommend adoption of administrative code proposals. efficient and fiscally responsible way. the Arizona Judicial Council. or repeal of a court rule may file a petition to adopt. Bar sections/committees consider all pending rule changes. or repeal a rule.Percent of budget from: State Local Fees Other: % % % % 15 . rule proposals/changes are initiated by the AOC. the Administrative Director prepares a summary of comments and makes a recommendation regarding adoption. Any person may initiate a proposal to adopt a new administrative code section or to amend or repeal an existing code section by submitting the proposal to the Administrative Director. or the Bar. justice of the peace. amendment. amend." The Supreme Court adopts policies and procedures to guide municipal. the Supreme Court may also propose the adoption. Funding/budget Authority . amend. or amendment of a rule. Petitions for rule changes and comments on proposed changes may be filed on paper or electronically. the chief justice may adopt. Usually. Public notice and opportunity for comment are provided to members of the legal profession and the public on pending rule changes. However. superior court and appellate courts throughout Arizona in conducting their administrative functions in a fair. who distributes and circulates the proposal for comment. Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: The Arizona Constitution states. association or public agency interested in the adoption.
Strengthening the administration of justice. and citizens. the State Bar of Arizona.Arizona Arizona’s court system is not a unified state-funded system. In addition to the courts and the AOC. and court leadership. Of the $740. surcharges. and communities. Fiscal authority . Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: 16 . sanctions. and Improving the legal profession.Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: Only the state appropriated portion of the budget request is developed/reviewed by the court. Improving communications. Planning for the Court System: The Arizona Court system develops a 5-year strategic agenda with input from the Administrative Director and the Arizona Judicial Council (AJC). 3. The strategic agenda is adopted by the Arizona Judicial Council. More than 100 jurisdictions (state. fees. Protecting children. and forfeitures. families.37 million was appropriated by the state legislature. counties. 2. the court system also provides adult and juvenile probation services and operates juvenile detention centers. 4. and other revenues. funds are appropriated by the legislature. only $163. The balance of revenues came from fines. and municipalities) are involved in court system expenditures.7 million expended by the court system in 2009. 5. staff. The Justice 2020 document includes five broad goals: 1. Maintaining a professional workforce and improving operational efficiencies.
a clerk of the superior court. The Strategic Agenda adopted by the AJC sets the court system agenda for the next five years. what are they? AOC liaisons with executive branch agencies. the president of the State bar or designee. members include the two chief judges of the court of appeals. clarity.participation. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Arizona Judicial Council Structure and Membership: Chaired by the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Please see the attached diagram of the Arizona Judicial Council and its Standing Committees.Arizona Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. This includes chief judges. not decision by fiat. administrative staff. two justices of the peace. All parts of the court system meet and discuss their issues regularly. two superior court presiding judges from non-metropolitan counties. the administrative director. Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator/AOC Judges Other: Is the entity(ies) involved in other political activities? Yes No If yes. the presiding superior court judges of Maricopa and Pima counties. nine public members. This provides continuity and stability to the court system. decision-making): Decision-making is accomplished with wide input from the court system . shared understanding of leadership roles): The Chief Justice serves a five-year term. a municipal court judge. SC staff. the Vice-Chief Justice (next Chief Justice) also serves 5 year term. a court administrator. and two AJC staff members. the chairs of the Limited Jurisdiction Courts Committee and the Committee on Superior Court. X X X X 17 .
The AJC develops and adopts the five-year strategic agenda for the Arizona court system. but this proved to be relatively ineffective and a poor process for policy implementation. and minorities. the Supreme Court utilized Administrative Orders to implement system wide policies. Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: Highly effective. chaired by the Chief Justice. the AJC may initiate rule proposals or amendments and undertake special projects at the request of the court. The Code of Judicial Administration has institutionalized the AJC and fostered broad acceptance the Council and its role. The AJC was modeled after the state of Utah's Judicial Council. including technology. The Standing Committees of the AJC address a wide variety of issues in a number of arenas. or repeal). Further. Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X 18 . and the Arizona Code of Judicial Administration put the AJC process into place. superior courts and limited jurisdiction courts. Note: Prior to the creation of the AJC. and the public is noticed and invited to the meetings. the AJC reports to the Supreme Court and makes final decisions in some instances and recommendations in others. uniformity in court operations and coordination of court services that will improve the administration of justice in the state of Arizona. The AJC meets four times a year. very influential. Every part of the court system has the ability to comment on issues decided by the Council. Jurisdiction: The AJC is the highest level of policy making for court administration.Arizona Role: The Arizona Judicial Council was created to assist the Supreme Court and the Chief Justice in the development and implementation of policies and procedures for the administration of all courts. Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Chief justice and vice chief justice review the budget. amendment. judicial education and training. and reviews and makes recommendations to the Supreme Court regarding administrative code proposals (adoption.
the AJC.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. State of Arizona X X 19 .always some who are not pleased. but the institutionalization of the AJC has gone a long way towards avoiding potential conflicts. & committees.ncsconline.S.Arizona Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. which court committees? Arizona Judicial Council The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: To assist the Chief Justice's administrative supervision of the court system. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: Very good . We staff committees and carry out the policies of the court. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www. U.
Arizona Judicial Council and Standing Committees 20 .Arizona Image .
gov 2.S.3% 6.5% 0.5% 7. Census at http://quickfacts.2% 21 .4% 2.2 63 26.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.7% 36.664 9.2% 39.California I. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.6% 1.6% 42.961.census.5% 11.2% 12. State Overview and Demographics 36.1% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other 76.87 217.4% 25.6% % *Hispanics may be of any race.
The number of judges and quasi-judicial officers in the Superior Courts changes every year by 16 due to the conversion of Subordinate Judicial Officer positions to judgeships. rulings on infractions and limited jurisdiction civil cases may be appealed within the Superior Court where the ruling originally occurred. 2011. Though official numbers to conclude the 2009-10 fiscal year ending June 30. For example. 6 districts 58 1 Number of Judges 105 See notes below 7 58 0 N/A Number of Judges 1. as of June 30. Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices GU = Gubernatorial appointment GU GU GU Full Term GU GU GU 22 .646 N/A 376 •	Appellate Courts Each of the 58 Superior Courts performs appellate functions for limited jurisdictional matters.California II. nor does it take into account judicial vacancies. State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court	Trial Courts •	The number of judges and justices is a point-in-time. This number refers to positions that are authorized in statute but does not include pro-tem judges and retired judges that are used to backfill judicial work in the branch. 2010. 2010. the conversion of 16 Subordinate Judicial Officers to judgeships is shown in a column that has been added showing 16 more authorized judgeships and 16 fewer Subordinate Judicial Officers for June 30. 2010 will not be released until spring.
courtinfo.602: http://www.1004(a)(1). the Presiding Justice is also the APJ. (CRC 10. Const. art VI. that appointment is made by the Governor o	In courts with only one division. Under article VI.1004(a)(3). sec.) o	If a Court of Appeal only has one division.California Terms of Office: (years) Trial Court Judges	Intermediate Appellate Court Judges	Supreme Court Justices	Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices •	•	See notes below See notes below See notes below 6 12 12 Presiding Judges in the Superior Courts are selected by judges of the Superior Court per California Rule of Court 10. 16(d)(1).cfm?title=ten&linkid=rule10 602 The selection of Presiding Justices and Administrative Presiding Justices in the Appellate courts depends in some instances on whether the appellate court has one division or more: o	Presiding Justice is a separate office that is established by the Constitution (See Cal. sec..) o	In courts with more than one division. sec.ca. Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices See notes below See notes below See notes below 23 . the Presiding Justice is a separate office that is established by the Constitution. 3.gov/rules/index. (See Cal.. Const. Administrative Presiding Justices in the Courts of Appeal are selected by the Chief Justice per California Rule of Court 10.). sec. art VI. 3. 16(d)(1).
and because Presiding Justice is its own separate office.g..ca. III.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. California Judicial Branch’s Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC): Office of Court Research.1004(a)(1).) o	In courts with only one division. Bureau of Justice Statistics. •	Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.cfm?title=ten&linkid=rule10 602 In the appellate courts the term of Presiding Justice and Administrative Presiding Justice depend on whether the court has more than one division: o	APJs designated by the Chief (i.. the Presiding Justice holds the role of APJ until s/he vacates the position (e. US Department of Justice. •	In the Supreme Court. Governance 7 Number of Supreme Court Justices:	Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice	Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution	Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial	X X L L 24 . (CRC 10.html and California. through retirement). the term of office of the Chief Justice is the same as his or her term of office: 12 years.gov/rules/index.California •	In the trial courts.ncsconline.e. in courts with more than one division) serve in that role for a period of time to be determined by the Chief Justice in his designation order. because the Presiding Justice is also the APJ.courtinfo. the term of office for presiding judges is not less than one year for courts with 2 judges and not less than 2 years for courts with 3 or more judges per California Rule of Court: http://www.
X C L/C L L/C L C 25 . (Cal.) Rules. and standards. to improve and promote a high quality and consistent California justice system.California Procedure: Appellate	Civil/Criminal	Evidence	Discipline: Judicial	Attorney	Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees/Councils	Bar-appointed Committees Other: The Judicial Council is authorized by the California Constitution to adopt rules for court administration. practice.The Judicial Council of the California Judicial Branch surveys judicial business and trends. VI. and adopts rules of Court administration. Const. •	Establishing and maintaining a rule-making process that is understandable and accessible to the legal-judicial community and the public. o	Provides guidelines for the style and format of rules.. § 6. practice. forms. and procedure that are not inconsistent with statute. forms. and forms and circulates those proposals for public comment in accordance with its procedures and guidelines. and standards of judicial administration are circulated for comment twice a year. o	Reviews proposed rules. for adoption effective January 1 and July 1. standards. art. The Council’s Rules and Projects Committee has the following functions and makes regular reports to the full council on its actions. and procedure. o	Establishes and publishes procedures for the proposal and adoption of rules of court and jury instructions that ensure that relevant input from the public is solicited and considered.
court leadership.gov/rules/. and staff should address the following: X 26 . Judicial Council Governance Policies. If the Rules and Projects Committee recommends against approval. To enable the council to make well-informed strategic decisions. The principal focus of the Judicial Council is to establish policies that emphasize long-term strategic leadership and that align with judicial branch goals. impartial and accessible justice system that meets public needs and enhances public trust and confidence in the courts.courtinfo. standards. Council policymaking is focused on the beneficiaries of the policy. I. the Administrative Director. and other government entities and justice system partners. Judicial Council of California Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: The Judicial Council whose role is set out in the California Constitution establishes judicial branch policy for the improvement of an independent. the Rules and Projects Committee: o	Communicates the council’s annual charge to each (see infra.1). when appropriate. ensuring that the activities of each are consistent with the council’s goals and policies. and the corresponding judicial branch goals. o	Determines whether any proposal for new or amended rules. June 2008. Judicial Council advisory bodies. the results to be achieved. the State Bar. all policy proposals submitted for council consideration by internal committees. judicial officers. It develops policy in consultation with the people of California.ca. practice. advocacy groups. the Governor. Sources: http://www. the Legislature. o	The Administrative Director is responsible for ensuring that items submitted to the Rules and Projects Committee for circulation for comment and the council’s agenda comply with the Rules and Projects Committee’s procedures and its guidelines on format and style. To achieve these outcomes. identifies issues for discussion. advisory bodies. the cost to be incurred. or forms has complied with its procedures and its guidelines on style and format. employees in the judicial branch. it states the reasons for its recommendation.California •	Assisting the council in making informed decisions about rules of court administration. C. o	Reviews an annual agenda for each to determine whether the annual agenda is consistent with its charge and with the priorities established by the council.. the Rules and Projects Committee makes a recommendation to the Executive and Planning Committee about whether the proposal should be on the consent or the discussion agenda and how much time should be allocated for discussion. and procedure. •	For those advisory committees and task forces over which it has been assigned oversight by the Chief Justice. o	Recommends to the council whether the proposal should be approved and. If the proposal does comply.
• • • • • • • • Beneficiaries of the policy; Results to be achieved; Costs to be incurred; Each corresponding judicial branch goal, objective, and anticipated outcome; Previous council action on the issue or policy; Comments from interested parties; Analysis of the benefits and risks of the proposals; and Analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of alternative options and an explanation of their implications.
Sources: Judicial Council Governance Policies, June 2008, Judicial Council of California Funding/budget Authority - Percent of budget from: State Local Fees Other: 100% % % %
The Lockyer-Isenberg Trial Court Funding Act of 1997 consolidated court funding at the state level and also required the state to fund all future growth in court operation costs. The legislation became operative on January 1, 1998, and made the declaration that the judiciary of California is a separate and independent branch of government, recognized by the Constitution and statutes of California as such. Concerning court facilities, a majority of court facilities, were transferred from county to state stewardship under the responsibility of the Judicial Council. The Administrative Office of the Court’s Office of Court Construction and Management (OCCM) is responsible for enhancing the administration of justice by providing responsible and efficient professional management of California’s court facilities; promoting excellence in the built environment with the aim of facilitating equal access to justice; and providing leadership in the design and management of judicial architecture. Sources: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/reference/4 30tcf.htm http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/reference/documents/tcfnews.pdf Judicial Council Policy Manual Reference, 2009 Fiscal authority - Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other:
The Legislature, in the annual budget act, appropriates funding for the Supreme Court, the Courts of Appeal, the Judicial Council/AOC, the Judicial Branch Facility Program, and the Habeas Corpus Resource Center. Each year in the Budget Act, the Legislature has specified that the Judicial Council has authority to allocate or reallocate funds as appropriate for these entities. Rule 10.101(c)(2) of the California Rules of Court authorizes the Judicial Council to delegate authority to the Chief Justice and the Administrative Director of the Courts to allocate funding appropriated to the Supreme Court, the Courts of Appeal, the Judicial Council/AOC, and the Habeas Corpus Resource Center. While funding appropriated for trial court operations, if unspent at the end of the fiscal year, may be carried over from one year to the next, funding appropriated from the General Fund for the rest of the branch for support operations must be expended or encumbered by June 30 of each fiscal year, or these monies revert to the General Fund or and would have to be re-appropriated by the Legislature if the funding is still required. Sources: http://www.courtinfo.ca.gov/jc/documents/reports/JCReporton08-09BranchExpenditures.pdf Judicial Council Policy Manual Reference, 2009 Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: Stakeholder participation in planning input on branch-wide issues, needs, and priorities is obtained on an ongoing basis from the following stakeholders and justice system partners: •	The public via surveys and focus groups such as the Judicial Council’s Trust and Confidence in the California Courts Assessment, phases I and II (2005 and 2006); The trial courts via their community-focused strategic and operational plans posted on the branch’s password-protected Serranus Trial Court Planning Web site; Leadership of the appellate courts and trial courts through surveys for comment on draft plans; The Judicial Council’s advisory committees and task forces via their annual work plans, which link projects undertaken to branch-wide strategic goals and objectives; The State Bar of California via direct participation in Judicial Council–sponsored branch-wide planning activities; Administrative Office of the Courts via direct participation in Judicial Council–sponsored branch-wide planning activities; and Other justice system experts who contribute data on emerging state and national trends in justice practice and administration.
Management and control of the planning process: The Judicial Council and the Executive and Planning Committee
Court system planning types: Operational	Long-range or strategic	Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates
Operational Long-range or strategic	Ad hoc or situational Other: Implementation and Accountability: California’s justice system partners collaborate in implementing—and accounting for progress toward achieving— branch-wide strategic and operational plan goals and objectives as follows: •	The trial courts each submit an annual progress report (APR) of planning on the branch’s passwordprotected Serranus Trial Court Planning Web site. The APR provides an implementation update, as well as a priority status report, for each local and branch-wide goal and objective. Judicial Council advisory committees and task forces report annually on the implementation status of projects and priorities included in their annual agendas. Implementation reports are reviewed by the council’s Executive and Planning Committee or Rules and Projects Committee. The State Bar of California conducts its own strategic planning and implementation efforts, the priorities of which complement the strategic goals and objectives established for the judicial branch by the Judicial Council. The Judicial Council and Administrative Office of the Courts oversee and implement many projects that support the goals and objectives of the branch-wide strategic and operational plans. Implementation status is tracked and reported as follows: o	Judicial Council of California’s annual report. The annual report summarizes the achievements of the California judicial branch as well as key trends in court workload and budget allocations for the fiscal year. o	Periodic reports by the Administrative Director to the Judicial Council. Several times annually, the Administrative Director of the Courts updates the council on major branch-wide strategic accomplishments. These reports are a regular feature of the council’s issues and business meetings. 2008-2011
2006-2012 X X
while providing statewide standardization to share data among the courts as well as with local and state justice partners. The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC). including the 58 superior courts. 2009 Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. acquisition. The Constitution also provides for the formation and functions of the Judicial Council. the scope of the division’s responsibility has broadened to include planning and coordination of technology developments in the trial courts. of the California Court Case Management System. The California Court Case Management System (CCMS) is a statewide technology initiative that brings the courts together to use one system for all case categories and to create a system that can be configured to meet the unique needs of each court. This report is generated from the AOC Projects Database and delivered for the council’s review at its annual planning meeting. the policymaking body for administration of the state courts. and the Supreme Court.pdf Judicial Council Policy Manual Reference.California o	AOC annual implementation report to the Judicial Council. the Phoenix Financial and Human Resources System.ca. With the implementation of state trial court funding. The Council developed a Tactical Plan for Court Technology as a major priority in the Strategic Plan aimed to leverage statewide technology resources to provide technology infrastructure throughout the state in a manner that supports innovation. challenges exist concerning centralized (statewide) versus local autonomy which can often present “gray areas. These include the following programs: Enterprise Architecture. The division is directly responsible for the development. implementation. Telecommunications Services. Information Services Division (ISD) assists the courts in achieving the Judicial Council’s technology objectives. especially related to the 30 . maintains flexibility. In general. CCMS is being managed by the Administrative Office of the Courts Southern Regional Office in Burbank with the participation of the AOC Information Services Division in San Francisco. The state Constitution further vests the judicial power of California in the Supreme Court. the California Courts Technology Center–Shared Services. governance of information technology is overseen by the Judicial Council.gov/reference/documents/factsheets/inf tech. and superior courts. these milestones denote progress made toward implementing the specific objectives and desired outcomes articulated in the branch-wide strategic and operational plans. with business partners. The ISD has implemented a program to develop and support the information technology infrastructure for the California courts. shared understanding of leadership roles): Leadership and lines of authority are clearly defined in the California Judicial Branch.courtinfo. clarity. These programs are vital to the implementation. Courts of Appeal. In recent times. Sources: http://www.courtinfo. and support of information systems in the appellate courts and the AOC.” The California Judicial Branch model based on a strong Judicial Council has worked well and has been emulated by other state courts systems. and the Computer-Aided Facilities Management System. and Data Integration and the Integration Services Backbone. The Chief Justice is the head of the branch set out by the state Constitution. AOC staff record major project milestones in the database. The AOC Projects Database tracks multiple AOC projects.gov/reference/documents/factsheets/Branchwide Strategic Planning. and is costeffective.ca. the budget crisis that is common to most states has generated some tension. leadership is fairly centralized but as in most systems.pdf Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: Information technology is state funded through the legislative budget process. Sources: http://www. the Courts of Appeal.
The California court system—the largest in the nation. Courts of Appeal Established by a constitutional amendment in 1904. the Administrative Director of the Courts. Additionally. Commission on Judicial Appointments. and adopt and revise California Rules of Court in the areas of court administration. •	Judicial Council: Chaired by the Chief Justice.California allocation of funds for long-term development of branch infrastructure and court closures occurring once per month in Fiscal Year 2009-2010. On June 2. and Habeas Corpus Resource Center. The California Constitution directs the Judicial Council to provide policy guidelines to the courts. each with its own jurisdiction and with its number of judges fixed by the Legislature. 19. Additionally. 31 . 1998. practice. The Courts: Supreme Court The Supreme Court of California is the state’s highest court. have benefitted the system. Its decisions are binding on all other California courts. and procedure. the leadership skills of Bill Vickrey. California has six appellate districts. the Courts of Appeal are California’s intermediate courts of review. Chief Justice George served on the Judicial Council prior to becoming chief justice and clearly understood the importance of a coherent statewide system prior to his appointment as chief justice. make recommendations annually to the Governor and Legislature. the State Bar of California and the Commission on Judicial Nominees are part of the administrative structure. Additionally. in tandem with Chief Justice George.000 court employees. The court system has also benefitted from an evolution throughout its history that emphasized systems thinking and unity as well as statewide funding and branch-wide planning.000 judicial officers. California’s trial courts consisted of superior and municipal courts. Branch Administration and Policy: Court System Agencies The Constitution also provides for agencies concerned with judicial administration: Judicial Council. Superior Courts Prior to June 1998. Chief Justice Malcolm Lucas added depth and vision to the branch as both displayed deep commitment to continuity of policy rather than personal agendas. Commission on Judicial Performance. and more than 9 million cases—serves over 37 million people. Duties of these entities are described below. The following sets out leadership authority for the courts as well as branch administration and policy. The council performs its constitutional and other functions with the support of its staff agency. with more than 2. the Administrative Office of the Courts. California voters approved a constitutional amendment permitting the judges in each county to unify their superior and municipal courts into a single superior court with jurisdiction over all case types. the Judicial Council is the governing body of the California courts. the leadership skills of Chief Justice Ron George and his predecessor.
persistent failure or inability to perform the duties of office. conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice that may be detrimental to the judicial office itself.pdf Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. the Attorney General. Commission on Judicial Performance: The California Constitution provides for a Commission on Judicial Performance.ca.gov/courtadmin/otheragencies. •	•	Sources: Court staff.California •	Commission on Judicial Appointments: The Governor’s appointees to the Supreme Court and the Courts of Appeal must be confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments.htm http://www. or a disability of a permanent character that seriously interferes with performance of duties.courtinfo.ca.gov/reference/documents/factsheets/Calif Judicial Branch. No appellate appointment is final until the commission has filed its approval with the Secretary of State. removal.gov/courtadmin/otheragencies.htm http://www. Administrative authority is vested in the Chief Justice as head of the California Judicial Branch. In conjunction with the Judicial Council and chaired by the Chief Justice. The Administrative Office of the Courts also plays a key role in decision-making concerning administrative matters. The commission has authority to conduct proceedings against any California judge after it investigates cases of willful misconduct in office.courtinfo.courtinfo. which deals with the censure. and the senior presiding justice of the Court of Appeal of the affected appellate district or—when a Supreme Court appointee is being considered—the state’s senior presiding justice of the Courts of Appeal.courtinfo. Sources: http://www.gov/reference/documents/factsheets/Calif Judicial Branch.ca. decision-making): Decision-making is essentially centralized with appropriate levels of local autonomy. habitual in temperance. The commission convenes after the Governor nominates or appoints a person to fill a vacancy on either the Supreme Court or a Court of Appeal. retirement. The commission has three members: the Chief Justice. or private admonishment of judges and commissioners for either misconduct or inability to perform their duties on account of permanent disability.ca. Habeas Corpus Resource Center: The Habeas Corpus Resource Center handles state and federal habeas corpus proceedings in capital cases and provides training and resources for private attorneys who take these cases. http://www.pdf Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: X X 32 . the Council makes decisions for the branch concerning policy and administrative issues. The commission holds one or more public hearings to review the appointee’s qualifications and may confirm or veto the appointment.
htm Is the entity(ies) involved in other political activities? Yes No If yes. the Office of Governmental Affairs engages in many projects and activities. with one-third of the council’s membership changing each year. ensure continuity while creating opportunities for new participation and input.ca. background. VI. The Chief Justice makes appointments based on applications received and recommendations made by the Judicial Council’s Executive and Planning Committee. and geography. The council also has at least 7 advisory members who include court executives or administrators. Const. These activities include advocating before and providing assistance to the Legislature and Governor.courtinfo. 33 .. The 21 voting members of the Judicial Council consist of the Chief Justice.courtinfo. Sources: http://www. what are they? The Chief Justice and Administrative Director participate in other activities when appropriate. 6). (Assembly or Senate) and executive (Governor) branches of government and to present the Judicial Council's recommendations on legislative matters affecting the courts pursuant to constitutional mandate. and advocating for the Judicial Branch budget.ca. 14 judges appointed by the Chief Justice. sect.California The Chief Justice and the Administrative Director represent the judicial branch to the legislature on behalf of the Judicial Council.gov/courtadmin/aoc/oga. and 1 member from each house of the Legislature. Also.gov/courtadmin/aoc/oga. This work is also supported by the AOC’s Office of Governmental Affairs whose mission is to promote and maintain effective relations with the legislative. coordinating outreach programs. Staggered terms. art. gender. producing publications on legislative matters. (Cal. Sources: http://www. 4 attorney members appointed by the State Bar Board of Governors. the president of the California Judges Association and chair of the statewide Trial Court Presiding Judges Advisory Committee. in addition to assisting the Policy Coordination and Liaison Committee (PCLC) with its role in taking positions on legislation.htm Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Judicial Council X X Members of the council are selected by a nominating procedure intended to attract applicants from across the legal system and to result in a membership that is diverse in experience.
and procedure.gov/reference/documents/factsheets/Judicial Council of California. and Responding to legislative mandates. http://www. Sponsoring and taking positions on legislation that affects the California judicial system. 1926. Under the leadership of the Chief Justice and in accordance with the California Constitution.courtinfo.htm Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: The Judicial Council has a long and venerable history in the California Judicial Branch and is viewed as very effective in its governance role. Promulgating rules of court administration.courtinfo. The body is responsible for improving the statewide administration of justice in the California courts and under the leadership of the Chief Justice and in accordance with the California Constitution. and procedure. Jurisdiction: On November 2. independent. This amendment has played a crucial role in maintaining the strength and independence of the judiciary in California. practice. the branch has increased its coherence. Through guidance and leadership from the Council.ca. unity. Allocating the judicial branch budget. and Responding to mandates from the Legislature.ca. the council is responsible for ensuring the consistent.gov/jc/about. practice. and accessible administration of justice. the largest court system in the nation. California voters approved a constitutional amendment establishing the Judicial Council as the policymaker for the third co-equal branch of state government and granted the new body responsibility for overseeing the state-wide administration of justice.courtinfo. The mandated responsibilities of the Judicial Council are: • • • • • Establishing direction and setting priorities for the continual improvement of the court system. Promulgating rules of court administration. Allocating the California judicial branch budget.ca. Sponsoring and taking positions on legislation that affects the California judicial system.gov/jc/about. the Judicial Council has done an excellent job of achieving its purpose of: • • • • • Establishing direction and setting priorities for the continual improvement of the court system.California Role: The Judicial Council is the policymaking body of the California courts.pdf http://www. Sources: Court staff. and performance. The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) serves as the council’s staff agency.htm Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X 34 . impartial. Sources: http://www.
pay and benefits administration. and the courts related to planning. the Judicial Council. and the Administrative Office of the Courts. and human resources information systems. and the Administrative Office of the Courts. analytical. the Habeas Corpus Resource Center. integrated disability management. Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X The Human Resources Division of the Administrative Office of the Courts provides a range of human resources services for the judicial branch. and (2) participate in budget negotiations with the legislative and executive branches consistent with the goals and priorities of the council. and compensation. may: (1) make technical changes to the proposed budget. the Courts of Appeal. which court committees? Advisory Committees: • • • • • • • • Access and Fairness Administrative Presiding Justices Appellate Indigent Defense Oversight Appellate Civil and Small Claims Civil Jury Instructions Criminal Jury Instructions CJER Governing Committee X 35 . as well as a priority status report.California The Chief Justice and the Administrative Director. as well as support to the trial courts. the Habeas Corpus Resource Center. on behalf of the Judicial Council and with regard to the budgets of the Supreme Court. Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X The Executive Office Programs Division performs a variety of logistical. Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. also may allocate funding appropriated in the State Budget to the Supreme Court. the AOC. The APR provides an implementation update. for each local and branch-wide goal and objective. and management services for the Judicial Council. This division coordinates the long-range planning efforts and for the judicial branch as well as the annual progress report (APR) for the trial courts. on behalf of the Judicial Council. the trial courts. personnel policy development. labor and employee relations. The Chief Justice and the Administrative Director. the Courts of Appeal. classification. the Judicial Council. in the areas of recruitment.
on behalf of the Judicial Council. the Judicial Council. two divisions in Sacramento. The Administrative Office of the Courts assists the Judicial Council in carrying out its duties under the Constitution and laws of the State of California. 36 . The Chief Justice and the Administrative Director. the Chief Justice and the Administrative Director. Together. the Courts of Appeal. and the Administrative Office of the Courts. may: (1) make technical changes to the proposed budget. known as the Administrative Office of the Courts. the Habeas Corpus Resource Center. with a staff of more than 800 serving the courts. consistent with the limitations from the Council and the Chief Justice. under the supervision of the Chief Justice.ca. and three regional offices. the Habeas Corpus Resource Center. The Administrative Director may use any reasonable interpretation of Judicial Council policies to achieve the council’s goals. and directs a staff agency. the trial courts. and (2) participate in budget negotiations with the legislative and executive branches consistent with the goals and priorities of the council.California • • • • • • • • • • • Collaborative Justice Courts Court Executives Court Interpreters Court Technology Criminal Law Family and Juvenile Law Financial Accountability and Efficiency for the Judicial Branch Judicial Service Probate and Mental Health Traffic Trial Court Presiding Judges Task Forces • • • • • • • • • • Bench-Bar-Media Children in Foster Care Commission for Impartial Courts Criminal Justice Collaboration on Mental Health Issues Domestic Violence Practice and Procedure Elkins Family Law Task Force Emergency Response and Security Legal Services Trust Fund Probate Conservatorship Self-Represented Litigants Sources: Court Staff: http://www. employs.courtin. the Judicial Council. and the AOC. organizes. Today the agency is organized into nine divisions in San Francisco. on behalf of the Judicial Council and with regard to the budgets of the Supreme Court. the Courts of Appeal.gov/jc/ The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The AOC has a primary leadership role in the governance of the judicial branch and provides administrative assistance and support to the Chief Justice and the Judicial Council in a variety of roles. also may allocate funding appropriated in the State Budget to the Supreme Court. The Administrative Director. Recent structural changes in the state judicial branch have dramatically increased the AOC’s roles and responsibilities.
http://allianceofcaliforniajudges. Bolotte. the Chief Justice.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. AOC Division Director Dag MacLeod. AOC Chief Deputy Director Chris Patton. General acceptance and widespread support exist for the leadership roles and strategic direction of the Judicial Council. and the Administrative Office of the Courts.ncsconline. the ongoing budget crisis and difficult decisions linked to it have generated some dissonance among a group of the judiciary concerned primarily with local autonomy. AOC Regional Administrative Director Nancy Spero. Manger for the Office of Court Research Ronald Overholt. Executive Office Programs Ken Kann.html 37 . are common during difficult financial times. Nonetheless. However. the branch continues to move forward to continually improve the system and establish continuity and coherence. Assistant Director.com/html/about us. both healthy and unhealthy.California Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: The current arrangements of authority and governance within the branch are quite successful and have afforded a great deal of continuity for the court system. we are committed to the following principles: • • • • • To insure that our courts remain open and accessible To insure accountable local management of the California courts To guarantee financial responsibility To minimize statewide bureaucracy To insure a strong preference for local flexibility in the conduct of court affairs These tensions.html Court sources and interviewees: Dianne M. Sources: Court Staff. a group known as The Alliance of California Judges was formed on September 11. The governance structure and current arrangements of authority are widely supported and respected throughout the judicial branch. Senior Attorney with the Secretariat The National Center for State Courts at www. 2009 with a stated mission of: Recognizing that as judges we are responsible to the public we have sworn to serve.
California Judicial Branch 38 .California Image .
gov 2.0% 85.5% 0.Minnesota I.9% 24. State Overview and Demographics 5. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.214 7.8 3 5.1% 1.3% 8.5 61.266.5% 89.census.4% 4.S.0% 12.2% 3. Census at http://quickfacts.6% 4.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.5% 6.1% 1.5% % 39 .0% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race.
which order a trial judge or public official to perform a specified act. except Tax Court & Workers' Compensation Court Original Actions: Writs of mandamus or prohibition. except first-degree murder convictions Decisions of Commissioner of Economic Security Administrative agency decisions.500) 14 10 districts Number of Judges 289 Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court	Court of Appeals Jurisdiction: •	•	•	•	•	Trial court decisions. such as permitting media coverage of a hearing 1 7 1 Number of Judges 19 Supreme Court Jurisdiction: •	•	•	•	Court of Appeals decisions Trial court decisions if Supreme Court chooses to bypass the Court of Appeals Tax Court decisions Workers' Compensation Court of Appeals 40 . State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers	Trial Court Jurisdiction: •	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	Civil Actions Criminal Cases Family Juvenile Probate Violations of city ordinances Appeals from: Conciliation Court(Civil disputes up to $7.Minnesota II.
41 .Minnesota • • • • Original Actions: Review of all first-degree murder convictions Writs of Prohibition** Writs of Habeas Corpus*** Writs of Mandamus**** Legislative election disputes Sources: About the Courts: http://www.mncourts.gov/?page=162 Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges GN GU Full Term NP NP NP Supreme Court Justices GU NP = Non-partisan election GU = Gubernatorial appointment GN = Gubernatorial appointment from judicial nominating commission Terms of Office: Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices CS = Court selection GU = Gubernatorial appointment Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices 6 6 6 CS GU GU 2 3 6 Court staff notes the following concerning terms of office for chief judges/justices: It is important to note that the term as chief judge/chief justice is not coterminous with the term of the seat. This is most important when it comes to the chief justice designation.
Department of Justice III. U. The Court of Appeal chief judge is appointed by the Governor for a three-year term and may be reappointed indefinitely.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics.Minnesota •	•	•	The trial court chief judge is chosen by judges of the district for 2 year term and is eligible to serve 2 consecutive 2 year terms.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. The National Center for State Courts at www.S. Governance 7 Number of Supreme Court Justices:	Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice	Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute	Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate	Trial	Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal	Evidence	X X C C C L/C L 42 . The Chief Justice is appointed by the Governor and serves as Chief Justice indefinitely.ncsconline. The term of the judicial seat is 6 years. Sources: Court Staff.
Sources: Court staff. The Supreme Court establishes rule making committees and appoint members of the Bar to the committees. W. The Judicial Council is not involved.Minnesota Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution L/C L/C L Court staff notes that attorney discipline is an inherent power of the courts and that trial court costs and fees are set in state statute. Johnson.cga. Minnesota's Supreme Court has ruled that under the separation of powers provision of the state constitution (Minn. Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: The Supreme Court is the rule-making body for all of the state's courts. Con. Art.gov/2008/rpt/2008-R-0430. OLR Research Report: http://www. Although local courts enact some rules of practice. these rules must not be in conflict with those established by the Supreme Court. VI. 2d 551 (1994)(addressing a criminal procedure statute). § 1). 514 N.ct. the Supreme Court has inherent authority to adopt rules of procedure and the legislature has no power to modify or enact statutes that govern court rules of procedure already in place (State v.htm Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: X X X 43 .
and in conjunction with the Chief Justice. education and organization development. budget priorities and requests to the executive and legislative branches. Guardian ad Litem. http://www. appointed by the Chief Justice Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals Chief Judges of the judicial districts Minnesota District Judges Association President Five at-large judges appointed by the Chief Justice. Through administrative order. the Judicial Council was established in 2005 as the administrative policy-making authority along with the Chief Justice. The existing Conference of Chief Judges and the Inter-court Committee were terminated. programs (jury.mncourts. The Council has authority for the Branch strategic plan. who serves as Chair of the Council Associate Justice. Minnesota Judicial Branch. court performance. The Judicial Council model was the result of recommendations made through a study done by the Transformation Workgroup (appointed by the Chief Justice) that was created in 2004 to examine the administrative structure and process. the Transformation Workgroup recommended a council model and a new administrative decision-making structure. and core services. finance.gov/?page=1264 Funding/budget Authority . expedited child support). appointed by the Chief Justice Sources: Court staff. The purpose of the Judicial Council is to exercise administrative policy-making authority for the judicial branch. collective bargaining. interpreter. accountability. directs the work of policy committees. and most of the court committees were placed under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Council. and make recommendations for a leadership and management structure that would best support a unified system.Percent of budget from: State Local Fees Other: 100% % % % 44 . children's justice initiative. The Minnesota Judicial Council membership is set out as: Voting members: • • • • • • Chief Justice. three of whom must be district court judges Non-voting members: • • • • State Courts Administrator Three Judicial District Administrators chosen by the Judicial District Administrators (non-voting member) One Court Administrator chosen by the Court Administrators (non-voting member) One at-large appointment from within the judicial branch. After extensive outreach and research. human resources. technology.Minnesota The Judicial Council is the policy making authority of the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
116. they are not dedicated to the courts. judicial officers. http://www. referees. law clerks District administrators staff Court administrators and employees Sheriff fees Minnesota court information system (computers) Legal services grants Court interpreters Guardian Ad Litem programs Medical examinations Jury fees and expenses Transcripts In forma pauperis costs Witness fees and expenses County Responsibility: • • Capital outlays Facility costs and operating expenses Sources: Court staff. The Minnesota Judiciary A Guide for Legislators: http://www.state. The fees users pay are credited either to the state or county general fund. the state assumed responsibility for financing most costs of the judicial branch. 2005. as well as by fees charged to users.Minnesota Funding for the Minnesota Judicial Branch is 100% funded by general revenue state funds.000 The courts are financed by the state general fund.77). Certain facility costs remain the responsibility of the counties (§ 484. House Research Department.mncourts.877.pdf).285. court reporters.000 Total. The Judicial Branch 2010 Annual Budget was as follows: • • • • District Courts.us/hrd/pubs/judiciary.$43.$10.leg.house. The 2009 Annual Report of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. Report to the Community.476.000 Court of Appeals. As of July 1.mn. The list below shows major court cost areas and indicates which are paid by the state and which by the counties.$250.$303.000 Supreme Court/State Court Administration. Funding State Responsibility: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Supreme court operations Court of appeals operations State court administrator’s office State law library Office of the public defender Salaries and benefits for district judges.gov/?page=432 45 . October 2008.
and court of appeal. 2010-2011 X 46 . Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: The strategic planning process is linked to legislative budget requests and guided by the Judicial Council. Sources: Court staff Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: The Strategic Planning Work Group facilitates the planning process and performs outreach to judges and court employees. Management and control of the planning process: The Judicial Council appoints an ad hoc Strategic Planning Committee. the SC. A draft plan is presented to each district.Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: X The Judicial Council sets budget priorities and submits the budget to the executive/legislative branches. The strategic plan’s goals and priorities are also operationalized at the local levels. and distributes the budget among the levels of court/districts.Minnesota Fiscal authority .
it promulgates rules of practice and procedure for the legal system in the state. in July 2007 the Judicial Council formed the Strategic Planning Workgroup to review the FY07-09 Strategic Plan and to recommend changes for the FY10-11 Plan. Additionally. Workgroup representatives met with the Judicial District Administrators and Directors (JAD). and 3.	Initiatives aimed at the development and maintenance of adequate personnel. web development and hosting. network services such as e-mail and file sharing. Through a statewide Service Desk. Services include development of applications. Along with the other justices.pdf Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: The Judicial Council sets the funding and governs the information technology for the judicial branch. Priorities & Strategies for Minnesota’s Judicial Branch Focus on the Future FY2010-FY2011 http://www. the Executive Committee of the Minnesota Association for Court Management (MACM). and State Court Administration managers and supervisors. Sources: Court staff. procurement and management of purchased software. In addition. integrations with the Courts’ business partners and installation and maintenance of personal computers with standard business software.gov/Documents/0/Public/Judicial Council/FY1011 Strategic Plan. Sources: Court staff. The Chief Justice exercises general supervisory powers over the courts of the state and has the authority to designate judges to assist in the performance of such duties. The Information Technology Division (ITD) of the State Courts Administrator’s Office provides technical support and infrastructure necessary for the Court to do business. 2. The Judicial Council.gov/?page=1315 Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. The Workgroup surveyed judges and court employees. and access to justice.	Affordable initiatives that are already under way and will not be completed at the end of the current plan. financial and service infrastructure in order to ensure the provision of.mncourts. in recognition of current fiscal constraints facing the Judicial Branch and of the initiatives and projects already underway.Minnesota Concerning recent planning efforts. as the highest court in Minnesota. The Workgroup made a special effort to reach out to all Judicial Branch judges and employees in the development of the new plan. The Chief Justice is the head of the judicial branch and this authority is established by the Constitution. http://www. the Supreme Court is responsible for the regulation of the practice of law and for judicial and lawyer discipline. clarity.	Initiatives that will reduce or contain current expenditures or provide additional cost effectiveness and efficiency critical to the efficient operation of the Judicial Branch. determined that the new plan’s goals and priorities should address only three areas: 1. Likewise. 47 . the Chief Justice sits as the final arbitrator of appeals. the Executive Board of the Minnesota District Judges Association (MDJA). shared understanding of leadership roles): The Minnesota Judicial Branch has clearly defined leadership roles. A Technology Investment Plan exists and is folded into the overall strategic plan. Each justice is a liaison to a number of Supreme Court boards and other state policy commissions that are charged with responsibilities ranging from day-to-day administration to strategic planning. presented information on the draft plan at a bench meeting in each judicial district and met with the Supreme Court and the Court of Appeals. ITD provides customers with a single point-of-contact for application and technical problems and for requests regarding the entire technical infrastructure.mncourts.
needs. and promulgation of the rules of practice and procedure for the legal system in the state rests with the Supreme Court. Measuring achievement of statewide goals and policies. Sources: Court staff. formulates and establishes the administrative policies for the operation of the judicial branch. priorities. State of Minnesota In Supreme Court Administrative Order ADM-04-8003. judicial/ lawyer discipline. The Chief Justice may be involved at intervals. Minnesota Judicial Branch 2005 Annual Report Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice	State Court Administrator	Judges Other: The State Courts Administrator’s Office provides principal representation to the legislature on behalf of the judicial branch. and goals in concert with the fair allocation of resources and includes: •	•	•	•	•	•	Deliberating in many voices. but governing in one. Focusing on strategies designed to meet future needs.pdf Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority.Minnesota The Chief Justice chairs the Judicial Council and in conjunction with this body. and Recognizing the needs of judicial districts to adopt local policies not inconsistent with Judicial Council policies. The primary responsibility for representation rests with the Inter-Governmental Liaison Sources: Court staff X X 48 . The Judicial Council’s decision-making concerning administrative matters is predicated on statewide values. Sources: Court staff. Involving judges and administrators in implementation of policies. Administrative policies promulgated and decisions made by the Judicial Council are binding on all judicial branch judges and employees.mncourts. Communicating openly and regularly with all stakeholders.gov/Documents/0/Public/Court Information Office/Informational%20Brochures/QFSupreme Court. decision-making): Decision-making power regarding the regulation of the practice of law. http://www.
by the chief justice (nonvoting member) Three district administrators chosen by the district administrators (nonvoting members) One court administrator chosen by the court administrators (nonvoting member) 49 . appointed by the chief justice Five at-large judges appointed by the chief justice. Restrictions also apply to court staff set out in the Court Employee Code of Ethics.state. both judges and judicial candidates are prohibited from improper partisan political activities. fair. Sources: Court staff. fourteen by virtue of their office: • • • • • Chief justice.pdf Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Judicial Council Structure and Membership: The Judicial Council was established by administrative order to govern the judicial branch through the establishment and monitoring of administrative policies. and timely system of justice statewide and to ensure that the judicial branch functions as an independent and accountable branch of government. http://www. chair Chief judge. The Council includes 25 members. Through the Code of Judicial Conduct. three of whom must be district court judges One at-large appointment from within the judicial branch.mn.bjs. what are they? -on an appropriate basis The State Courts Administrator’s Office facilitates appropriate inter-governmental activities. court of appeals Chief judges of ten judicial districts Minnesota District Judges Association president State court administrator (nonvoting member) X X Eleven members are appointed to three-year terms: • • • • • Role: The purpose of the Council is to govern the judicial branch through the establishment and monitoring of administrative policies designed to achieve an accessible. One associate justice.us/Code%20Committee%20Final%20Rpt.Minnesota Is the entity(ies) involved in other political activities? Yes No If yes.
Sources: Court Staff Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts	Describe: Judicial Branch	X X The State Courts Administrator’s Office assists the Judicial Council and its standing Finance Committee in preparing the budget priorities. and the membership has been dedicated to systems thinking and overall benefits for the branch in terms of resources. and submission of the judicial branch budget request to the executive and legislative branches •	Collective bargaining •	Human resources •	Technology •	Education and organizational development •	Finance.Minnesota Jurisdiction: The Judicial Council is the administrative policy-making authority for the Minnesota Judicial Branch and exercises authority for the following: •	Development and implementation of the branch strategic plan •	Budget priorities. interpreter. budget request.state. House Research Department. October 2008.leg. expedited child support. The Minnesota Judiciary A Guide for Legislators: http://www. court performance and accountability Sources: Court staff. and Children’s Justice Initiative •	Core services. Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts	Describe: Judicial Branch	X X 50 .house. including budget distribution among levels of court and among districts •	Programs. guardian ad litem.pdf Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: The Judicial Council has been very effective in fulfilling its role. including jury. and submission of the judicial branch budget request to the executive and legislative branches.mn. budget request.us/hrd/pubs/judiciary.
Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. http://www.mncourts.Standing Children’s Justice Initiative (CJI) Advisory Committee Court Operations Advisory Workgroup (COAW) Criminal Benchbook Committee Data Quality Steering Committee Diversity/Cultural Competence Education Committee Financial Management Workgroup (FMG) 51 . 2. which court committees? The State Courts Administrator’s Office assists the Judicial Council through staffing its standing and/or ad hoc committees. Finance Committee Court Operations Policy and Strategy Committee (COPS) Human Resources/Education and Organization Development Committee (HR/EOD) District Implementation Committee x Additionally.Minnesota The State Courts Administrator’s Office assists the Judicial Council and its standing committee on Human Resources/Education and Organization Development Committee (HR/EOD) concerning personnel and human resources functions.gov/?page=1261 The State Courts Administrator’s Office assists in staffing the Judicial Council’s has four standing committees: 1. Additionally. Sources: Court staff. the State Courts Administrator’s Office assists in staffing Council ad hoc committees as needed. and three statewide committees that report to the Judicial Council: 1. Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch x X The State Courts Administrator’s Office assists the Judicial Council and its ad hoc Planning Committee in developing the branch strategic plan. The advisory groups/teams are: • • • • • • • SCA Advisory Workgroups/Committees. 4. 3. 3. Drug Court Initiative (DCI) Public Trust and Confidence Committee Racial Fairness Committee The SCAO also staffs court Rules Committees and numerous SCA Advisory groups and teams. each district has a human resources manager with responsibility for daily operations. 2.
http://www.Minnesota • • • • • • • • • • • Gender Fairness Implementation Committee Judicial District Administrators and SCAO Directors Group (JAD) Judicial Weighted Caseload Workgroup (WCL) Juvenile Benchbook Committee Legislative Advisory Workgroup (LAW) Staff Weighted Caseload Workgroup State Court/Tribal Court Forum State Safety Workgroup Competencies Statewide Business Needs Technology Investment Plan SCA Operational Teams: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • CJI Lead Judges Court Administrators Team (CAT) Court Collections Workgroup Data Quality Workgroup District Communications Liaisons District Interpreter Liaisons (DIL) Diversity Collaboration Group Drug Court Liaison Workgroup EOD Operations Committee GAL Managers Human Resources Diversity Operational Workgroup Human Resources Management Team Jury Management Resources Team (JMRT) Labor Management Committee MN Judicial Analytical Databases (MNJAD) Team State Accounting Workgroup Sources: Court staff.15. and research and planning for the judicial system.083.gov/?page=1261 The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The State Courts Administrator’s Office is in charge of administrative functions. and the State Courts Administrator is appointed and evaluated by the Judicial Council. The Office was created by statute (§§ 480. The duties also include assisting the Chief Justice in assigning district judges around the state and supervising the following: • Information System o Minnesota Court Information System (MNCIS) Administrative Services o Budget o Personnel o Continuing education for court personnel • 52 .mncourts. subd. 15A. 4).13-480. information systems.
us/hrd/pubs/judiciary. Department of Justice Image .org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.house.mn. Inter-Governmental Liaison. http://www.S.pdf Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: The level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch is very high.ncsconline.Minnesota Judicial Branch Administrative Structure 53 .Minnesota • Research and Planning o Statistical research o Policy planning o Legal research Child Support Magistrate System • Sources: Court staff.leg.state.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. U. State Courts Administrator’s Office Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www. Sources: Court staff. Janet Marshall.
987. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.S.5% .2 4 2.5% 3.Missouri I.1% 1. State Overview and Demographics 5.gov 2. Census at http://quickfacts.9% 81.5% % 54 .8% 11.0% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race.4% .580 7.48 81.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.7% 5.1% 6.5% 1.7% 23.7% 84.9% 13.census.
State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers Municipal Courts Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges GU & GN GU Full Term PE & GN GU GU 1 Number of Justices 7 3 Number of Judges 32 625 45 45 Number of Judges 141 193 32 405 Supreme Court Justices GU GN=Gubernatorial appt.Missouri II. PE=Partisan election Terms of Office: Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices 6 12 12 55 . from judicial nominating commission GU=Gubernatorial appt.
Missouri Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justice CS = Court Selection GU = Gubernatorial Appointment Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/ Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices 2 2 2 CS CS CS Presiding judges at each level are selected by en banc vote of the court. III. similar to Florida. Governance 7 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: X Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: X 56 . By tradition the supreme courts elects the chief justice based on seniority.
Missouri Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: C C C C L C C Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: X Advisory Ad hoc X X Policy-making is not conducted in a uniform manner. Typically the supreme court appoints committees on an ad hoc basis in response to requests from judges or the bar. 57 .
Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: Missouri develops its trial court budget through a Circuit Court Budget Commission.Missouri Funding/budget Authority . Municipal courts are entirely local. Local government is responsible for facilities and limited security (buildings. Fiscal authority .Percent of budget from: State Local Fees Other: 80% 20% % % All personnel except municipal court personnel are in state funded positions. The appellate court budgets are developed by the SCA in consultation with the chief judges of the appellate courts. not courtrooms). Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: Missouri does not have a formalized planning process and conducts limited ad hoc planning. Management and control of the planning process: Supreme Court X X 58 .
State funding provides for standardized applications software. Local courts must provide monitors and printers as part of facilities furnishing.Missouri Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: Missouri has developed a statewide case management system under the auspices of the Missouri Court Automation Commission. The judicial conferences provide input on legislative priorities. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges conferences Other: Political activities of other entity: Yes No If yes. Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. hard-drive towers. clarity. what are they? X X X n/a X 59 . memory. servers. shared understanding of leadership roles): Leadership is provided by the supreme court justices acting collectively. Funding is derived from a $7 court automation fee. This fee generates approximately $6million annually. networks. decision-making): Decision making is centralized within the supreme court and the AOC.
The separate conferences are represented on a 10-member executive committee of the council. which court committees? The AOC staffs committees dealing with: trial court budgeting.Missouri Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: The Judicial Conference Council coordinates judicial branch positions on legislation but not on budgets. Recruitment. Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. automation. This bodies meets once per year and is staffed by the general counsel to the supreme court. Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Planning is ad hoc. Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X X X X Personnel policies and administration is centralized within the AOC. hiring and firing are conducted within the circuits and the appellate courts. Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: The Judicial Conference Council is considered to be effective within its limited role. juvenile and family. judicial education. X X X 60 .
Missouri The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The AOC plays a strong role in the governance of the branch primarily through its advisory capacity with the supreme court and court committees.S. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: Both judicial leadership and rank and file appear to be generally satisfied with the governance structure of the branch.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. U.ncsconline. State of Missouri 61 .html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts.
70% 25.70% 1.50% 2.10% 7.20% 0.gov 2.085 32. Census at http://quickfacts.census.10% 8.80% 23.50% 6.2 4 15.S.70% 11.10% 25.40% 80. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.30% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race.Nevada I.62 18.80% % 62 . State Overview and Demographics 2.643.90% 57.
State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Justice Court Municipal Court 48 towns 17 cities/towns 9 districts Number of Judges 64 65 justices of the peace* 30* 10 justices of the peace also serve as municipal court judges Intermediate Appellate Courts: The Nevada court system has no intermediate appellate courts. Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court 1 Number of Justices 7 Many cases are decided by three-justice panels.Nevada II. Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges District Court Justice Court Municipal Court Intermediate Appellate Court Judges GU CO CC N/A NP NP NP N/A NP Full Term Supreme Court Justices GU NP = Non-partisan election GN = Gubernatorial appointment from judicial nominating commission CO = County board/commission appointment CC = City or town council/commission appointment GU = Gubernatorial appointment 63 . Panel membership rotates every 12 months. one meets in Las Vegas. one meets in Carson City.
U.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics.ncsconline.S.Nevada Terms of Office: Trial Court Judges District Court Justice Court Municipal Court Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices VA = Varies Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges District Court Justice Court Municipal Court Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices VA = Varies CS = Court selection Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/Justices) Trial Court Judges District Court Justice Court Municipal Court Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices VA = Varies Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. State of Nevada VA 1 VA N/A 2 Rotation VA CS VA 6 6 VA N/A 6 64 . Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts.
Governance 7 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: L L L/C C L/C C C C X X Nevada 65 .Nevada III.
and implementing the budget. Anyone may file a petition to create or amend a rule. including organizational entities.40% Courts are funded primarily by administrative assessments which are fines for misdemeanors that are assessed in amounts ranging from $25 .The Supreme Court has the authority to adopt. as well as its own Commissions and Committees. or repeal an administrative rule. Fiscal authority . such as the Article 6 Commission chaired by the Chief Justice. In some cases. the funds are split between the AOC (51%) and the Executive Branch (49%). The AOC and the Supreme Court Justices are heavily involved during the budget session of the legislature. amend. The Supreme Court addresses issues brought to its attention by the AOC and other Court Department Heads. 66 . amend. Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: The Nevada court system is not unified. or the board of governors of the state bar of Nevada may file a petition to adopt. a Supreme Court Commission or Committee may recommend policies to these courts. Policies for the Supreme Court and the District Courts are implemented through administrative orders issued by the Supreme Court. however. including supreme court justices and judges of the Nevada court system. Funding/budget Authority .Percent of budget from: Fiscal Years 2010 and 2011 combined State Local Fees Other: Administrative assessments (and small amount from Federal grants) 46.Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: The Nevada Supreme Court is responsible for planning.$115. preparing. or other organizations dedicated to improvement of the judicial system. The Governor has no authority over the Judicial Branch budget. The state legislature reviews and approves the Court's budget. Limited jurisdiction courts typically develop their own policies. the court system is specifically exempt from the State Budget Act. or repeal administrative rules.60% % % 53. the director of the administrative office of the courts. Any judge.
There are clear lines of authority from the Chief Justice to the chief judges of the district courts. through the AOC. the constitution does not specify how such authority is to be implemented. The Nevada Revised Statutes. however. Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. although some funding is available through counties. etc. constitutional proposals.Nevada Planning for the Court System: There is a limited system wide planning process for the state court system via the Judicial Council for the State of Nevada (JCSN) and various Court Commissions and Committees. shared understanding of leadership roles): Article 6 of the Nevada state constitution identifies the Chief Justice of the Supreme court as the head of the court system. Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: The Information Technology Division. Is the entity(ies) involved in other political activities? Yes No If yes. The AOC and the IT Steering Committee are responsible for governance. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. what are they? Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Judicial Council of the State of Nevada (JCSN) X X X X 67 . Municipal Court Judges). legal changes. is funded primarily through administrative assessments pursuant to state statute. Other funding sources include user charges and multi-party filing fees. local codes and rules govern process and appointment for judges of the courts of limited jurisdiction (Justice of the Peace. decision-making): Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: The Court and the state courts administrator review potential legislation affecting the court. clarity.
Nevada Structure and Membership: The Judicial Council comprises 16 judges from across the state at every level. Role: The Judicial Council is an administrative arm of the judiciary. developing policies for the improvement of the court system and making recommendations to be considered by the Nevada Supreme Court. with the Supreme Court Chief Justice as ex-officio chairperson. The budget is reviewed by the Supreme Court and submitted to the Executive Branch for informational purposes only. Council committees include: • • • • • • Legislation and rules Judicial education Technology Court administration Court interpreters Standardized protection order forms committee Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: On a scale of 1-10. Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch AOC prepares the Judicial Branch budget for state funding. 68 . Jurisdiction: The Judicial Council recommends legislation or court rules to the Nevada Supreme Court and reviews legislation proposals from the Nevada Judges Association and the Nevada District Judges Association. Ninth Judicial Districts) Washoe Region (Second Judicial District) North Central Region (Fourth and Sixth Judicial Districts South Central Region (Fifth and Seventh Judicial Districts) Clark Region (Eighth Judicial District) The Regional Council meetings are open to all judges in the region and every judge has a vote on regional matters. The five Regional Judicial Councils are: • • • • • Sierra Region (First. about a 7. The authority of the JCSN is subject to the Supreme Court's direction. There are five Regional Councils where members meet independently. Third. together these councils form the Judicial Council of the State of Nevada.
collaboration. which court committees? The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: 80% administration. examples are judicial education and senior judges' program. U. and information technology.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.S. tied to duties established during legislative session. specialty courts. standardization of forms. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.ncsconline. Their voice is heard via JCSN. State of Nevada X X 69 . Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. which includes commissions and committees. judicial services. special projects.Nevada Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Supreme Court Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. 20% implementation of new legislation. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: Judges are content with the authority structure. and "open door policy" of communication supported by the Supreme Court Justices. regional councils.
so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.6% 13.5% 16.4% 23.68 1134.gov 2.739 3.3% .7% .census.5% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race.1% 1.7% 14.S.5% 6.707. State Overview and Demographics 8.4% % 70 . Census at http://quickfacts.5 20 17.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.3% 76% 61.New Jersey I.3% 7.5% 25.
State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers The New Jersey court of general jurisdiction is the Superior Court. misdemeanors. comprised of 15 Vicinages and a statewide Tax Court of limited jurisdiction.New Jersey II. Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Superior: GL Municipal: MA or MM GL GL MA=Mayoral appt. 1 Number of Justices 7 1 Number of Judges 33 15 1 (Tax) 526 (Muni) Number of Judges 441 12 526 Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices GL=Gubernatorial appt/consent of Legis. dispersed in Parts housed in 8 locations around the state. Superior Courts are organized into four standard divisions -. Full Term Superior: GL Municipal: MA or MM Chief Justice GL MU=Municipal appt. ordinance and game and fish matters are handled in Municipal Courts. family and civil – as well as an appellate division described below Traffic/parking. Each Part has 4 or 5 judges.general equity. 71 . Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction New Jersey has a single statewide Appellate Division comprised of 33 Superior Court judges. criminal. There is an additional limited jurisdiction appeals Part for Megan’s Law cases.
each Appellate Division Part and the Tax Court are selected by the chief justice from among the population of Superior Court judges. the chief justice and Superior Court judges. Municipal Court judges are selected pursuant to a process established by the municipal governing body for 3-year terms.New Jersey Supreme Court justices. Terms of Office: Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices AP = At the pleasure of SCJ = Chief Justice appoints GL = Gubernatorial Appointment/consent of Legislature The chief justice is nominated by the governor and confirmed by the senate. Presiding (known as “Appointment”) judges of the 15 vicinages. Governance 7 AP AP DU SCJ SCJ GL 7 AP 7 Number of Supreme Court Justices: 72 . Upon second appointment they achieve tenure and can remain on the bench until age 70. including appellate and tax court judges. Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices AP = At the pleasure of DU = Duration of service III. are nominated by the governor and confirmed by the senate for an initial 7-year term. Judges of the Appellate Division are selected by the chief justice from among the population of Superior Court judges. After 7 years they are eligible to be re-nominated and reconfirmed.
New Jersey Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: C C L C C C/L C C X X Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: X X X 73 .
X (JudicialCouncil subcommittee) X 80% 8% % Federal 12% advisory X 74 . and the Council of Division managers.Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: The New Jersey Judiciary Strategic Planning Committee produced a strategic plan in 1998. Management and control of the planning process: There has not been a formal planning process since the 1998 plan was completed. comprising managers of each of the court subject-matter divisions. Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: Policy development is conducted under the auspices of the supreme court. except for rules of evidence which are developed by bar-appointed committees.New Jersey Rulemaking is conducted under the auspices of the Supreme Court by court-appointed committees. comprising court administrators in the vicinages.Percent of budget from: State Local Fees Other: Fiscal authority . Funding/budget Authority . with significant involvement of two committees: the Administrative Council. The committee included judges and court administrators as well as substantial representation from justice system constituent organizations and the bar. The Judicial Council oversees limited ad hoc planning carried out primarily on a divisional or issue-specific basis.
generally exercised through delegation to the assignment (presiding) judges of the 15 vicinages and Appellate Division Parts. Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: The administrative director represents the branch before the legislature with the assistance of a legislative liaison. shared understanding of leadership roles): Leadership is accomplished through the chief justice in close relation to the Judicial Council and the AOC. issue Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: Governance of technology for the Superior Courts and Supreme Court is conducted through the AOC with funding provided from general revenue appropriations. This system is governed through the AOC. Technology in the municipal courts is provided primarily via a statewide Automated Traffic System funded through a fee on traffic cases. The chief justice sits as chair of the Judicial Council. The chief justice has the authority to assign Superior Court judges to any court within the state. including the Appellate Division and the tax Court. Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. clarity. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority.New Jersey Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Divisional. X 1998 – no end date ongoing 75 . decision-making): The chief justice has broad executive authority.
X X 76 . what are they? Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Judicial Council The Judicial Council includes the chief justice. and representatives of the four divisional conferences. the Administrative Director of the Court (SCA). Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch The AOC plays a strong role in division al and ad hoc planning efforts. It has been instrumental in bringing relative parity to courts throughout the state in the fifteen years since unification. which is performed by local administrators. Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X X X The AOC develops budgets for the trial courts in consultation with presiding judges and local administrators. Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X The AOC provides HR functions except local recruiting and hiring.New Jersey Political activities of other entity: Yes No If yes. the presiding judges of the fifteen vicinages and the appellate division. Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: Within its limited role the Judicial Council appears to function well.
largely in an advisory capacity to the chief justice and the presiding judges of the various courts. The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The AOC appears to play a fairly strong role in branch governance. as well as through the Judicial Council and other court committees.S. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: Satisfaction with current arrangements appears to be fairly high. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. State of New Jersey X 77 . Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. which court committees? The AOC staffs essentially all court committees.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. U.ncsconline.New Jersey Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes.
1% 1.census.S.2% 16.6% 13. Census at http://quickfacts.3% 22.61 401.6% 7.9% 17.541.gov 2.4% 59.9 5 20. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.453 3.8% 0.1% 0.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.6% % 78 .4% 73.0% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race. State Overview and Demographics 19.4% 28.0% 6.New York I.
mostly GL. MU Full Term Varies.mostly GL. 14 14 DU 79 . Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Varies. State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers 69 * * Number of Judges 385 * * * The New York State Unified Court System is not amenable to summary description. See attached chart. MU 1 Number of Justices 7 4 2 Number of Judges 56 14 Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices GL = Gubernatorial appt/approval of Leg. Terms of Office: Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices DU =Duration of service MU = Municipal appt.New York II.
plays a strong role in governing the branch. Governance Not specified DU 14 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: 7 X X The Chief Administrative Judge.New York Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Chief Administrative Judge GU GU Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/ Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices DU = Duration of service GU = Gubernatorial Appointment III. Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence L L L C C C 80 . in consultation with the Chief Justice.
This body considers rules proposals generated by committees appointed by the Chief Administrative Judge.Percent of budget from: State Local Fees Other: Fiscal authority .New York Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees *Rulemaking is conducted through an Administrative Board composed of the presiding officers of the four appellate divisions and the chief justice. Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: Funding/budget Authority .Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief Administrative Judge % % % % X * * L L L Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: 81 .
shared understanding of leadership roles): The chief judge (justice) provides overall leadership within the branch. however considerable operational authority is delegated to the Chief Administrative Judge and to the administrative judges of the appellate and trial courts. clarity. There is no dedicated fee source. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator & Chief Administrative Judge Judges Other: X n/a X X 82 . Management and control of the planning process: Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: Governance of technology is carried out under the direction of the Chief Administrative Judge. Some operational and ad hoc planning is conducted under the direction of the Chief Administrative Judge and the administrative judges of the appellate and trial courts.New York Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process The New York Unified Court System does not currently conduct a formal long-term planning process. decision-making): Decision making is highly centralized under the Chief Administrative Judge and the administrative judges. supported by general revenue. who are selected by the Chief Administrative Judge.
who compiles a unified budget for submission to the legislature. which court committees? X Ad hoc X X 83 . There is no budget committee. what are they? Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: N/A Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X X X X Individual courts submit budgets to the AOC/Chief Administrative Judge.New York Political activities of other entity: Yes No If yes. Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes.
plays a very strong role in the governance of the NYUCS. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.ncsconline. U.S.New York The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The AOC. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: The level of satisfaction is said to be difficult to gauge. State of New York 84 .org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. under the direction of the Chief Administrative Judge.
New York Court Structure 85 .New York Image .
New York Image .New York Administrative Structure 86 .
40% 2. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.00% 1.00% 9.10% 12.80% 31.13 27.784.572 24.30% 12.Utah I.S.50% 9.70% 1.00% 0.90% 81.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.2 4 7.gov 3.census.70% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race. Census at http://quickfacts.70% % 87 .00% 92. State Overview and Demographics 2.80% 1.
5 domestic court commissioners 108 District Courts Limited Jurisdiction 39 Juvenile Courts Justice Court Justice Courts are locally funded and operated. State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Number of Judges 71 judges 9.Utah II. consent of governing body GU = Gubernatorial appointment PE = Partisan election 88 .5 domestic court commissioners 28 judges 1. Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Appeals GNL 1 1 Number of Judges 7 5 Full Term GNL MM GNL GNL Supreme Court Justices GNL GNL GNL = Gubernatorial appointment after merit selection process. Intermediate Appellate Courts: 24 136 Number of Courts Court of Appeals Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges* District Justice Juvenile * There are no unexpired terms/ each judge begins a new term. consent of legislature MM = Mayoral or county manager appointment based on merit selection process. governor only considers names submitted.
State of Utah 2 4 2 Not applicable 2 CS CS CS Not applicable CS 6 10 6 6 6 89 .S.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics.ncsconline. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www. U.Utah Terms of Office: (years) Trial Court Judges District Justice Juvenile Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Appeals Supreme Court Justices Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges District Justice Juvenile Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Appeals Supreme Court Justices CS = Court selection Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/ Justices) Trial Court Judges District Justice Juvenile Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Court of Appeals Supreme Court Justices* *Chief justices can succeed themselves. Administrative Office of the Courts.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. Department of Justice.
Governance 5 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: Utah Judicial Council SC Chief Justice is the chief administrative officer for the courts and implements the rules adopted by the Judicial Council. The Judicial Council is the principal authority for the administration of the judiciary. Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution L/C C L L/C L/C C C C X 90 .Utah III.
Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) & AOC Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: The Council is the principal authority for the administration of the judiciary. The Supreme Court adopts rules of civil and criminal procedure and rules of evidence for use in the state courts. Improving continuing education for judges and staff. Identifying and solving the priority problems facing the judiciary. Attracting and retaining qualified judges. and technical developments. Boards of Judges for each level of court. Only operational issues at the local level are addressed through local rules or policies. subject to review and approval by the Judicial Council. petitions concerning rules or procedures governing the practice of law. The Management Committee and the Policy and Planning Committee of the Judicial Council coordinate system-wide policy development. social. established by the Judicial Council. 91 . Boards of judges may also propose rules of procedure and evidence to advisory committees and coordinate the adoption of local supplemental rules. The Supreme court considers advisory committee proposals for rule changes. and independent system for the advancement of justice. efficient. demographic. There are very few local rules. and Assuring that the judiciary keeps pace with legal. The Policy and Planning Committee of the Judicial Council proposes system-wide rules to be considered and adopted by the Judicial Council. The council is committed to developing uniform policies to achieve the following objectives: •	•	•	•	•	An open. political.Utah Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: Most rules originate with the Judicial Council. fair. and the court may in its discretion initiate rule changes. subject to ratification by the Council. may adopt administrative rules for their level of court in accordance with the guidelines of the Council.
13% % Note: these figures do not include the local justice courts.778. The Council then prepares the court system budget request (one line item in the budget) and sends it to the Legislature (for voting) and to the Executive Branch (for information). then submit their requests to the State Courts Administrator and the Judicial Council. which is reviewed and approved by the Judicial Council. The Boards debate and discuss issues. The Council asks each committee to submit both short-term and long-term strategic plans for their topic area. the regional court administrators prepare budget requests and submit them to the appropriate Board(s) of Judges. as well as through 10 of the 13 standing committees. the State Court Administrator and the Boards of Judges present their recommendations to the Council. one request for each Board/type of court. which then reviews. however. The State Courts Administrator looks at the requests from a systemic perspective and prepares recommendations for the Judicial Council.700 $166. The Policy and Planning committee of the Judicial Council recommends to the Council new and amended rules for the Code of Judicial Administration and the Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual. Fiscal authority .263. The Judicial Council conducts strategic planning through the three management committees. the plans are submitted to the Council. The budget process begins with input from the regional court administrators (officials appointed by the State Courts Administrator).100 83.38% 16. At a two-day meeting of the Council.Percent of budget from: State General Fund Other state funds/credits Federal funds Other: State General Fund: Other state funds/credits: Federal funds: Total: $107.317.49% 0. The courts may carry forward funds from one year to the next. the Council prepares a budget plan with funds appropriated for the current year as well year as well as carry-over funds from the previous year's budget. Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: AOC doesn't prepare a system-wide strategic plan for the court system. as they are locally funded and operated. The budget is submitted to the Executive and Legislative branches.700 $129. and adopts the plans. amends. The committee also recommends to 92 .700 $21.Utah Funding/budget Authority . the Legislature considers and votes on the budget submitted by the court system. The Council can shift funds from one part of the budget to another without legislative approval.Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: The AOC prepares the budget.
Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority. decision-making): See description below of Utah Judicial Council. The technology Committee will establish plans and priorities for data processing developmental efforts on a periodic basis. the district courts.Utah the Council periodic and long term planning efforts as necessary for the efficient management of justice. and the juvenile courts)as well as courts not of record (justice courts) is established under the direction of the Judicial Council through its Technology Committee. The AOC prepares procedures and protocols for approval by the Technology Committee. The Boards of Judges provide a mechanism for supervising the implementation of Council policy. The committee researches and makes recommendations regarding any matter referred by the Council. shared understanding of leadership roles): See description below of the Utah Judicial Council. Management and control of the planning process: The Judicial Council Court system planning types: Short. clarity. X 93 . the Court of Appeals.and long-term strategic planning Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: The data processing policy governing courts of record (the Supreme Court.
The Liaison Committee. Is the entity(ies) involved in other political activities? Yes No If yes. The judges and the state bar representative serve three year terms. what are they? Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Utah Judicial Council Structure and Membership: The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is the presiding officer of the Council. X 94 . and the State Courts Administrator typically makes public statements based on the Council's positions. or takes no position). and. opposes. and takes a position on all proposed legislation relating to the judicial branch (supports. three members elected by the justice court judges. the Chief Justice and the State Courts Administrator testify to the legislature on behalf of court issues. The council has the following executive committees: • • • The Management Committee. Members include: one member elected by the justices of the Supreme Court. and. two members elected by the judges of the juvenile courts. five members elected by the judges of the district courts. The Policy and Planning Committee. Administrative Office serves as secretariat to the Council. and agencies and organizations. Generally. a member of the Board of Commissioners of the Utah State Bar. one member elected by the judges of the Court of Appeals. the governor's office.Utah Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: The Liaison Committee of the Judicial Council drafts legislation on behalf of the Council. The AOC interacts with the legislature.
Ethics Advisory Committee. Court Facility Planning Committee. Court Interpreter Committee.Utah The council has established the following standing committees: • • • • • • • • • • • Technology Committee. The Judicial Council is responsible for adopting uniform rules for the administration of all courts in the state. Note: Justice courts are locally funded and operated. court facilities. Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: Very effective. setting standards for judicial performance. support services. The Judicial Council ratifies rule proposals submitted by Boards of Judges. Council committee. Role: The Utah Judicial Council directs the activities of all Utah state courts. Uniform Fine/Bail Schedule Committee. and. The Judicial Council holds monthly meetings. Committee on Children and Family Law. Jurisdiction: The Judicial Council is the principal authority for the administration of the judiciary. The council may also form ad hoc committees or task forces to consider topical issues. Judicial Branch Education Committee. The Council has the responsibility to seek the advice and recommendations of the Boards of Judges on such issues and to delegate to a board. or Court Administrator the authority to make an official public statement. Justice Court Standards Committee. which is reviewed and approved by the Judicial Council. The budget is submitted to the Executive and Legislative branches. 95 . which are open to the public. Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Makes recommendations Judicial Branch X X The AOC prepares the budget. Committee on Resources for Self-represented Parties. Guardian ad Litem Oversight Committee. Committee on Judicial Outreach. The Council or its designee is the sole authority for establishing and representing the official position of the judiciary on issues within the jurisdiction of the Council. and judicial and non-judicial personnel. The combination of centralized control and wide participation from all levels of courts enables the council to effectively govern the court system.
interpreters. They are responsible for making decisions based upon a systemic perspective. Planning Functions for: Trial Courts & AOC Describe: Judicial Branch Refer to Management and control of the planning process above. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: Very satisfied. which court committees? See list of Judicial Council committees above. staff. The Council members meet once a month with the Boards to communicate the reasons for decisions. the State Courts Administrator meets monthly with the regional court executives/administrators to communicate in the same way. so all functions are managed through the AOC (including judges. The Utah state court system is entirely state-funded. X 96 . and the AOC represents the judicial branch to other branches and agencies. The Council makes all decisions regarding courts and consequently decisions are "owned" by the decision makers. The AOC also drafts policies on behalf of the Policy & Planning Committee. which identifies issues for the Council. The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The Judicial Council sets policy with the assistance of the AOC. as well as being responsible for administration of the court system. The focus remains on the needs of the entire system rather than focusing on just one level of court or one region of the state.Utah Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts & AOC X Describe: Trial courts . The Judicial Council model has very few critics within the court system. The various Boards of Judges elect members to serve on the Council. security. Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. bailiffs. The AOC has lots of responsibility for allocating and managing resources.how court executives/administrators operationalize policies set by the Judicial Council Judicial Branch X Describe: The Policy and Planning committee of the Judicial Council recommends to the Council new and amended rules for the Human Resources Policies and Procedures Manual. etc.). and are not allowed to advocate for their level of court. Likewise. it has extensive authority to govern within the court system and uses the expertise and experience of trial and appellate judges serving on the Judicial Council. the AOC serves as the secretariat for all committees. buildings.
ncsconline. The court system has the ability to self-govern. There are no associations within the court system with competing priorities or perspectives. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. The Judicial Council model was adopted 30 years ago and has worked very well in Utah. U. The State Courts Administrator appoints the Regional Court Executives/Administrators. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index. who in turn appoint the Clerks of the Court.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. so when a change in the Chief Justice occurs. The Judicial Council establishes the agenda for the court system. it is seamless in terms of continuity of leadership. and the Judicial Council has the ability to handle budget problems and priorities as needed.S. State of Utah 97 .Utah General Comments: All functions of the court system fall under the jurisdiction of the Judicial Council.
2% 94.9% 1.1% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin* American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race.2% 20.5% 96.0% 5.S.5% .Vermont I.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U.gov 2.760 2. State Overview and Demographics 621.census.8% 5.2% % 98 .3% 14.2% 0% 1.0% 1.44 65. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100. Census at http://quickfacts.8 1 3.4% 1.
Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court Court of Last Resort Number of Courts Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices GNL n/a GNL Full Term LA n/a LA 1 Number of Justices 5 0 0 Number of Judges 0 0 GNL = Gubernatorial appt. Family and Probate. enviro)16 (probate)14 (assistant. is described by the Commission as “duplicative. to become effective in 2011. family) 14 each ( (traffic.Vermont II. The existing structure. particularly non-lawyer assistant judges. district. State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts (superior. overly expensive and inefficient. will be consolidated.” The new structure. traffic. Criminal. The role of quasi-judicial officers. from judicial nominating commission w/legislative consent LA = Legislative appointment 99 . will consolidate trial court jurisdiction into a single Superior Court with four divisions: Civil. reflected here. child support) 16 Number of Judges 31 total 28 14 35 General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers In 2010 the Vermont Legislature court system adopted a major restructuring plan for the Vermont court system based on a plan developed by the Commission on Judicial Operation.
III. Governance 5 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: X X 100 . The chief justice appoints one trial court judge to serve as administrative judge of the trial courts statewide. from judicial nominating commission w/legislative consent SC = Court of last resort appoints Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/ Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices 4 n/a 6 The chief justice is designated by the governor from among the five justices.Vermont Terms of Office: Trial Court Judge Intermediate Appellate Court Judge Supreme Court Justices Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges – one presiding judge for all trial courts Intermediate Appellate Court Judges SC n/a 4 n/a 6 Supreme Court Justices GNL GNL = Gubernatorial appt.
Vermont Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees C C L C C C C C Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: Occasional Ad Hoc committees Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: SCA/Admin judge X X X advisory Policy making in Vermont appears to be a relatively streamlined process carried out through small advisory committees of 5-8 people created by the chief justice and/or the administrative judge and SCA. 101 .
Percent of budget from: 2009 State Local Fees Other: 2011 State Local Fees Other: 88% 12% % % 94% 6% % % The 2010 restructuring of the Vermont courts will move most operational costs to the state along with fee revenues. Fiscal authority . Effective in 2011 the 14 counties will be responsible for only facilities upkeep. The recently concluded Commission on Judicial Operation carried out a de facto strategic planning initiative that resulted in a comprehensive restructuring of court jurisdiction as well as consolidation of governance and funding of trial court operations. Management and control of the planning process: See above.Vermont Funding/budget Authority .Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts Other: X advisory The state court budget is developed within the AOC under the oversight of the chief justice and the administrative judge of the trial courts. 102 . utilities and maintenance. Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: Vermont does not have a formalized planning process.
adopted by the legislature in 2010 and effective in 2011. the administrative judge of the trial courts. access.50 fee on state criminal and traffic cases. Divisions are represented by committees of superior court judges. jury. decision-making): Decision-making is highly centralized. Governance is carried out through the AOC. There is no end date.Vermont Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: The recommendations of the Commission on Judicial Operation were proposed in 2009. consolidated within the office of the chief justice and to a significant degree delegated to the administrative judge of the trial courts and the SCA. Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority. Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: X X X X 103 .). Traditionally each associate justice takes responsibility for an issues area. and a series of standing committees organized by division and subject matter (education.5-million) received from a $12. shared understanding of leadership roles): Leadership is consolidated within the office of the chief justice in consultation with the associate justices. clarity. Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: All court technology is funding by the state from revenue ($1. etc. Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority.
the Commission on Judicial Operations served the main planning function. supported by the AOC. what are they? Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: n/a Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: As described above. Judicial Branch x x x x x X X 104 .Vermont Political activities of other entity: Yes No If yes.
S.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. pre-reform management structure was viewed as inefficient and ineffective because significant authority was dispersed among the various trial courts and judicial officers.Vermont Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes. State of Vermont 105 .org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.ncsconline. Department of Justice Administrative Office of the Courts. The new structure is not yet in place. which court committees? • • • • • • • • • Family Division Oversight Committee Criminal Division Oversight Committee Civil Division Oversight Committee Judicial Education Committee Justice for Children Initiative Fairness and Equal Access to Justice Committee Judicial Ethics Committee Model Jury Instruction Electronic Filing and Video or Audio Proceedings X The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The AOC has a strong role in both policy development and direct management of the Vermont state courts. Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: The existing. U. Sources: The National Center for State Courts at www.
0% 19.Virginia I.8% 0.census.54 178. Census at http://quickfacts.882.7% % 106 .9% 0.1% 6.0% 67.1% 73.7% 23.1% 11.gov 2.S. State Overview and Demographics 7.4% Total Population Estimate – 2009: Percent Population Growth Estimate – 2000-2009: Race (as of 2008): White (including Hispanic/Latino Origin) White not Hispanic/Latino Black or African-American Hispanic/Latino origin * American Indian and Alaska Native Asian Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Multi-racial Other *Hispanics may be of any race.5% 12.4% 4.000 or greater as of 2008) Sources: The U. so also are included in applicable race categories Age (as of 2008): Persons under 5 years old Persons under 18 years old Persons aged 65 years and older Cultural Diversity (as of 2000): Foreign born Language other than English spoken at home Population Dispersion (as of 2000): Average number of persons per household Average number of persons per square mile Number of Urban Centers/Areas in State (Population of 100.590 11.1% 1.9% 6.8 9 8.
Virginia II. State Court System Jurisdictional Structure and Number of Officers Trial Courts: Number of Courts 31 circuits 120 courts 32 districts 191 courts Magistrates 8 regions Number of Judges 157 244 436 General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Quasi-judicial Officers Intermediate Appellate Courts: Number of Courts General Jurisdiction Limited Jurisdiction Supreme Court Selection Authority for: Unexpired Term Trial Court Judges Circuit District Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices GU = Gubernatorial appointment LA = Legislative appointment CS = Court selection Terms of Office: (years) Trial Court Judges Circuit District Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices GU CS GU GU 1 1 Number of Judges 11 7 Full Term LA LA GU GU 8 6 4 4 107 .
The National Center for State Courts at www.Virginia Selection Authority for: (Presiding/Chief/Administrative Judges/Justices) Trial Court Judges Circuit District Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices CS = Court Selection Terms of Office: (Presiding/Chief/ Justices) Trial Court Judges Intermediate Appellate Court Judges Supreme Court Justices 2 4 4 CS CS CS CS Sources: Court staff.ncsconline. Governance 7 Number of Supreme Court Justices: Head of the Judicial Branch: Supreme Court Chief Justice Supreme Court Other: Authority establishing head of judicial branch: Constitution Statute Other: X X 108 .S. U.org/D Research/Ct Struct/Index.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. Department of Justice III.
chaired by the Chief Justice. The Judicial Council receives and studies all suggestions for rule changes from the bench.Virginia Rulemaking Authority: Court Administration: Appellate Trial Procedure: Appellate Civil/Criminal Evidence Discipline: Judicial Attorney Trial Court Costs and Fees L = Legislature C = Constitution Rulemaking Process – Participants: Supreme Court Legislature Local Courts Court-appointed Committees Bar-appointed Committees Other: X X X L L L L/C L/C L/C L/C L/C Uniformity of rules is regarded as a vital element for the development of a sound judicial system in the Virginia Judicial Branch. The rule-making process runs efficiently and involves many committees/sources who submit their recommendations to the Judicial Council.courts. bar and citizens.state. http://www.va.pdf 109 . Sources: Court staff. and makes recommendations on Rules of Court to the Supreme Court of Virginia. The Constitution of Virginia authorizes the Supreme Court of Virginia to promulgate rules governing the practice and procedures to be used in the courts of the Commonwealth.us/courts/cib.
A report of the proceedings and recommendations of the Council is made to the General Assembly and to the Supreme Court on an annual basis. one circuit court judge. magistrates and personnel in each district. two attorneys qualified to practice in the Supreme Court of Virginia.us/courts/cib. Membership of this committee includes the Majority Leader of the Senate. who serves as its President. while being ultimately within the authority of the Chief Justice as the administrative head of the system. establishing guidelines and policies for court system personnel. Membership includes the Chief Justice. and all active judges of the general district and juvenile and domestic relations district courts. and the Chairmen of the Committees for Courts of Justice in the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates. Sources: Court staff. Active members include the Chief Justice and justices of the Supreme Court.va. the Chairmen of the Committees for Courts of Justice in the Senate and House of Delegates. one general district court judge. The Council also studies the need for additional judges in the circuit courts. The Judicial Conference of Virginia was organized to discuss and consider means and methods of improving the administration of justice in the Commonwealth. and two juvenile and domestic relations district court judges. six circuit court judges. the Chief Justice periodically appoints special committees to study specific policy topics and make recommendations to the Judicial Council. and all retired justices and judges of such courts. In addition to involvement from the aforementioned entities. The Judicial Council then makes its policy recommendations to the Supreme Court. http://www. It is responsible for examining the work accomplished and results produced by the system and its individual offices and courts. The Committee on District Courts (CDC) was created to assist the Chief Justice in recommending new judgeships and certifying the need to fill district court vacancies. the Speaker of the House. The Judicial Conference of Virginia for District Courts is similar to the Judicial Conference of Virginia in its mission and responsibilities.state.Virginia Policy Development – Process/Participants: Supreme Court (centralized) Local Courts (decentralized) Court-appointed Committees/Councils Other: The formulation of administrative policy for the courts in Virginia. is vested on a routine basis in the Judicial Council and various committees and commissions. two members of each of the Courts of Justice Committees appointed by the respective Chairman. The Chief Justice serves as President of the Conference. rules. and fixing salary classification schedules for district court personnel and magistrates. all judges of the Court of Appeals and the circuit courts. The Judicial Council is charged with the responsibility of making a continuous study of the organization. one juvenile and domestic relations district court judge.courts. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is presiding officer for the Council whose membership includes one Court of Appeals judge. two general district court judges. and authorizing the number of clerks. and methods of procedure and practice of the judicial system of the Commonwealth.pdf X X 110 .
the circuit court judges.jsp?id=1202446066208&rss=newswire Fiscal authority .Virginia Funding/budget Authority .Development/Allocation of Budget: Chief/Administrative Justice Supreme Court	State-level Budgetary Commission Chief Judges of Individual Courts	Other: The Virginia General Assembly sets the overall budget for the Virginia Judicial Branch. The Circuit Clerks are constitutionally elected officers in Virginia. district judges. The Compensation Board of the Executive Branch provides the human resources support and funding coordination for the clerks and their deputy clerks. the Court of Appeals of Virginia. http://www. travel reimbursement requests and other types of requests 111 . Sources: Courts staff. Circuit judges. The Office of the Executive Secretary assists the Supreme Court in developing budget allocations.com/jsp/article.law. Local budgets are under the control of the chief judge. and clerk office staff are fully state funded and their human resources function is provided by the Office of the Executive Secretary (the administrative office for the court system). The Department performs the following key functions: X X •	Budget/Grants o	Develop and prepare the judicial system’s Biennium Budget which includes the baseline budget and all budget amendments •	Accounting/Payroll o	Prepare semi-monthly payrolls for the judicial system including salary and wage employees and substitute and retired/recalled judges •	Accounts Payable o	Audit and process for payments all vendor payment requests. the general district and juvenile and domestic relations district courts.Percent of budget from: State	Local	Fees	Other: *	% % % % * The Virginia Judicial Branch is funded through a combination of local and state funding. The Department of Fiscal Services in the Office of the Executive Secretary is the court system’s financial management center for the Supreme Court of Virginia. and the magistrates.
• Purchasing o Issue purchase orders for supplies, equipment, court forms, etc., for the judicial system
Sources: Court staff; http://www.courts.state.va.us/courtadmin/aoc/fiscal/home.html Planning for the Court System: Participants in the system-wide planning process: Extensive outreach, including futures commission, judges, clerks and magistrates, focus groups including community leaders. Management and control of the planning process: Office of the Executive Secretary, Department of Planning Court system planning types: Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other: Timeframe of most recent plan (begin and end dates): Plan Effective Dates 1-2 year intervals 2009-2014 X X
Operational Long-range or strategic Ad hoc or situational Other:
Comprehensive strategic and operational planning largely evolved following the 1989 Commission on the Future of Virginia’s Judicial System. The strategic plan includes seven visions that represent the core functions of the judicial branch as well as objectives to achieve them. The planning process had operated on a two-year cycle but shifted in 2005 to a longer term of 5 years. Implementation and monitoring of the Strategic Plan is ongoing and the list of operational tasks for the Judicial Branch is updated in one to two year intervals. Monitoring primarily focuses on the work of the Office of the Executive Secretary. In addition to extensive outreach, the Judicial Branch conducts ongoing futures research including environmental scanning, the identification and analysis of trends, and the solicitation of expert opinions through focus groups. Additionally, the Supreme Court periodically conducts citizen surveys to assess perceptions of the courts; the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court also solicits feedback from individuals involved in the judicial process, including judges, clerks, and attorneys.
At the local levels, a few courts have strategic plans that link to the branch strategic plan, but their participation is not mandatory. Sources: Court staff; http://www.courts.state.va.us/courtadmin/aoc/judpln/reports/2009 strat plan.pdf Funding and governance of information technology in the judicial branch: The Virginia Judicial Branch is primarily a unified technology system. However, 20% of trial courts operate on different systems. The push for a more computerized court system escalated sharply in 2005 when the Chief Justice of the Virginia Supreme Court appointed Karl R. Hade as executive secretary. Clerks of Court who are constitutionally elected officials receive frequent training concerning the centralized system and data input requirements about twice per year, and maintain close communication and cooperation regarding these systems. Any application including automation or technology improvements that would require an interface with the case management system, or the financial management system operated and maintained by the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court for the purpose of providing electronic information to state agencies, the circuit court clerk, or the court's designated application service provider, is required to certify that such automation or technology improvements will comply with the security and data standards of the systems operated and maintained by the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court. The majority of funding for technology is through the legislative process as a line item in the General Assembly budget. District and circuit courts are funded, in part, through the establishment of a Technology Trust fund based on filing fees. The clerk of each circuit court assesses a $5 fee, known as the "Technology Trust Fund Fee," in each civil action that is deposited by the State Treasurer into this trust fund. The Office of the Executive Secretary’s Department of Judicial Information Technology (DJIT) provides technology services to Virginia’s Judiciary through its seven divisions: 1.	Administrative Services
Provide administrative/clerical support to other DJIT divisions
2.	Application Development Develop, deploy, and maintain applications such as the case management system, financial management system, video conferencing, and the e-magistrate system 3.	Field Services
Provide installation, relocation and support services for computers and related equipment
Develop, maintain and support multiple local area networks and the judicial network
5.	Network Applications Develop, maintain and support network based applications and services such as the Records Management System, Case Imaging System, Judicial Internet, Judicial Intranet, and Human Resource applications 6.	Operations Operate the mainframe processors, manage the tape library system, and serve as the Help Desk for all hardware and telecommunications problem reports 7.	Systems and Database Administration Maintain and support the mainframe processors along with related systems level software, files and databases
Sources: Court staff; http://www2.newsvirginian.com/wnv/news/local/article/technology streamlines courtrooms/56945/ http://www.courts.state.va.us/courtadmin/aoc/djit/home.html http://leg1.state.va.us/cgi-bin/legp504.exe?000+cod+17.1-279 Leadership of the judicial branch (lines of authority, clarity, shared understanding of leadership roles): The lines of authority and shared understanding of leadership roles are quite clear in the Virginia Judicial Branch. Centralized authority exists with the Chief Justice as the administrative head of Virginia’s judicial system assisted by the Executive Secretary. The Judicial Council continually studies the organization, rules, and methods of procedure and practice of the judicial system and its individual offices and courts, and makes a report of its proceedings and recommendations to the General Assembly and the Supreme Court on an annual basis. The Committee on Districts Courts also assists the Chief Justice in the administrative supervision of Virginia’s district courts. Additionally, the Judicial Conference of Virginia recommends means and methods to improve the administration of justice. The Judicial Conference of Virginia for District Courts is similar to the Judicial Conference of Virginia in its mission and responsibilities. The Chief Justice is also a member of these bodies. Sources: Court staff; http://www.courts.state.va.us/courts/cib.pdf Judicial branch Decision-making (centralization versus decentralization of authority, decision-making): Decision-making in the Virginia Judicial Branch is based on centralized authority with an appropriate level of local autonomy dependent on the issue/topic. Primary administrative authority rests with the Chief Justice in conjunction with an advisory Judicial Council which also provides recommendations to the Supreme Court regarding court rules of practice. Source: Court staff Entity(ies) that represent the judicial branch to the legislature: Supreme Court Chief Justice State Court Administrator Judges Other: The Chief Justice and the Office of the Executive Secretary’s Department of Legislative and Public Relations are primarily the representatives to the legislature. The Department of Legislative and Public Relations manages legislative matters, and handles media and public relations for Virginia’s Judicial System. The Department provides staff support for the development of legislative proposals recommended by the Judicial Conferences of Virginia, and represents Virginia’s Judicial System on legislative matters before the General Assembly. The Department presents information to legislators about the impact of bills on Virginia’s Judicial System, and prepares and disseminates to the court system an annual summary of court-related legislation. X X
make speeches for a political organization or candidate or publicly endorse or oppose a candidate for public office. or other political functions.va.us/courtadmin/aoc/lpr/home. and reviewing and updating court informational pamphlets.1-700) X 115 . (Virginia Code § 17. http://www. attend political gatherings. Sources: Court staff.state. one general district court judge. Sources: Court staff.html Coordinating council or committee for the judicial branch: No Yes Committee Name: Judicial Council Structure and membership: The Chief Justice is the presiding officer and the membership includes: one Court of Appeals judge. if he is otherwise permitted by law to do so. There is minimal engagement in other political activities as there are strict canons concerning political activity of judges. For example.html Political activities of other entity: Yes	No If yes. and the Executive Secretary. two attorneys. Additional responsibilities include managing the content of Virginia’s Judicial System website. what are they? The Office of the Executive Secretary provides representation on an appropriate basis to the executive and legislative branches. except that he may continue to hold his judicial office while being a candidate for election to or serving as a delegate in a state constitutional convention. two chairmen of legislative committees.courts. the legal system.us/agencies/jirc/canons 112398. or the administration of justice.courts. http://www. six circuit court judges. Canon 5 states that a judge shall refrain from political activity inappropriate to the judicial office and shall not: •	•	•	act as a leader or hold any office in a political organization. Council members are appointed by the Chief Justice and serve for four years or at the pleasure of the Chief Justice. A judge shall not engage in any other political activity except in behalf of measures to improve the law. or solicit funds for or pay an assessment or make a contribution to a political organization or candidate.va. Office of the Executive Secretary. or purchase tickets for political party dinners.state. including requests for records and information.Virginia The Department is also responsible for responding to inquiries from the press and the general public. one juvenile and domestic relations district court judge. minimal A judge shall resign his office when he becomes a candidate either in a party primary or in a general election for a public office.
state.1-703) Jurisdiction: The Judicial Council is an advisory body to the Supreme Court and is one of four primary policy entities. With an extensive committee structure and membership. http://www. rules. Sources: Court staff Role of the Administrative Office of the Court (Select all that apply) Prepare/assist in preparation of budget for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X The Office of the Executive Secretary develops and prepares the judicial system’s Biennium Budget which includes the baseline budget and all budget amendments. (Virginia Code § 17. 116 . and the Judicial Conference of Virginia for District Courts. the Council provides insight and support to the Supreme Court through its recommendations and advice. It is also responsible for examining the work accomplished and results produced by the system and its individual offices and courts.Virginia Role: The Judicial Council is charged with the responsibility of making a continuous study of the organization.800 employees. the Judicial Conference of Virginia.html Effectiveness of council in fulfilling or performing its role: The Judicial Council has historically added a great deal of value to the overall functioning of the Virginia Judicial Branch. The Department’s primary activities are to develop recommendations concerning human resource administration and to administer the personnel management system.va. It is responsible for attracting and retaining qualified employees using HR management flexibilities. In addition. Personnel/HR functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch X The Human Resources Department provides centralized human resource management services for approximately 2. A report of the proceedings and recommendations of the Council is made to the General Assembly and to the Supreme Court on an annual basis. pay practices and benefits. Sources: Court staff. and methods of procedures and practice of the judicial system. this department supports the training and development of employee skills to meet current and future needs of the organization. The other entities are: the Committee on District Courts.us/courtadmin/judpolicies/home.courts.
human resources. Fiscal Services.Virginia Planning Functions for: Trial Courts Describe: Judicial Branch	X The Department of Judicial Planning develops and maintains effective planning capabilities within Virginia’s Judicial System. Judicial Services. and grant services to the courts. Serves as Secretariat and provide staff support for the Judicial Council of Virginia. http://www. Furthermore. particularly in the areas of securing grant funding and in preparation.va. Maintains liaison with all agencies of state government. Judicial Planning. Specifies objectives and develop broad content for the courts’ and magistrate systems’ regular educational programs. Serves on the Indigent Defense Commission and the Forensic Science Board. e-mail. Working with judicial policy-making bodies (such as the Judicial Council of Virginia and the Committee on District Courts). as well as legal research assistance for judges. and video technology.va. http://www. Provides financial management direction.courts.state. Describe: The Office of the Executive Secretary (OES) provides administrative assistance to the courts of the Commonwealth and to Virginia’s magistrates through its eleven departments.pdf. accounts payable. the Historical Commission. This office also provides payroll.us/courtadmin/aoc/oes/home. the Committee on District Courts and all Judicial Conferences.courts. Provides direction and final approval on project development within the OES and review and monitor the project management system. Legal Research and Legislative and Public Relations. the general public. the OES serves as the State Courts Administrator and administers the Virginia court system at the direction of the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Virginia. and evaluations to respond to requests from. and to develop and to make recommendations to. investigations. planning. Human Resources. including Internet. Sources: Court staff. case management. purchasing. evaluation and defense of budget submissions. the General Assembly. Directs analysis. Educational Services. This includes the training and education of all judicial branch employees.us/courts/cib. Provides direction in the preparation of the Comprehensive Judicial Plan and its implementation.state. The Department is structurally divided between planning function staff and staff dedicated to specific programmatic or special projects. along with technical support to the courts and magistrate offices in the Commonwealth. the Court Improvement Program. and the Bar.html 117 . Judicial Information Technology. The departments within the OES include the Assistant Executive Secretary and Counsel. It also: •	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	•	Provides the Chief Justice with current information on all issues and operations. and developing and implementing innovative programs and solutions that address those needs. It supplies all information technology. the Department assists the Chief Justice and Supreme Court of Virginia in identifying present and future needs.
the Committee on District Courts.org/D_Research/Ct_Struct/Index. Cyril Miller.ncsconline. Sources: Court Staff: Dr. and all Judicial Conferences. U. Office of the Executive Secretary The National Center for State Courts at www. The Office of the Executive Secretary also serves as Secretariat and provides staff support for the Judicial Council of Virginia. particularly through the role of the Office of the Executive Secretary.html The Bureau of Justice Statistics. Department of Judicial Planning. There is general acceptance of the governance structure and is remarkably noncontroversial.Virginia Staffing Court Committees: Yes No If yes.S. Department of Justice 118 . great strides and improvements have been made. which court committees? The Office of the Executive Secretary supports the following entities with support: • • • • • • • • • Judicial Council of Virginia Committees of the Judicial Council of Virginia Committees of the Judicial Conference of Virginia Committee on District Courts Advisory Committees of the Committee on District Courts Committees of the Judicial Conference of Virginia for District Courts Advisory Committee on Domestic Violence Issues in Virginia’s Courts Advisory Committee on Services for Non-English Speakers in Virginia’s Courts Commission on Mental Health Law Reform X The AOC's role in governance of the judicial branch: The Office of the Executive Secretary provides assistance and support to the Chief Justice and Supreme Court. Also. It is highly respected for its integral role in the governance structure of the branch. Sources: Court staff Level of satisfaction with current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch: A high level of satisfaction exists with the current arrangements of authority within the judicial branch.
Virginia Judicial Branch 119 .Image .
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