Domestic cases may address issues of domestic violence, child abuse, or substance abuse; many involve litigants who are involved in other cases as well. It is important for the judicial officer handling one case to know about the related cases. The Judicial Council in 2003 selected seven mentor courts to focus on unification or coordination of family, juvenile, or probate matters and to teach other courts about their processes. These courts are creating rules or protocols to:
- Identify families with cases in more than one division or courtroom;
- Keep judicial officers informed about existing orders and keep court-connected services informed about matters related to their clients (while complying with legal mandates to protect confidential information); and
- Ensure the safety of court participants and staff.
|
