NCJ Number
180269
Date Published
1999
Length
148 pages
Annotation
This report catalogs innovative coordination mechanisms used by courts in family cases throughout the United States, so as to present them as options for others to emulate or adapt to their particular circumstances.
Abstract
Although the conventional recommendation for achieving coordination is the establishment of a unified family court, coordination among cases is something that must be planned and nurtured regardless of court structure. One chapter discusses the various one-family/one-judge/one-judicial officer methods of coordinating cases that involve families. The use of screening teams and treatment teams increases coordination and facilitates obtaining the resources so necessary for families with multiple service needs. Regardless of court organization, courts must share information among themselves. This permits judges and judicial officers the most current, accurate information upon which to base decisions. A chapter of this report references the various types of automated information systems now in use for coordinating cases among courts. A chapter on the coordination between courts and human service agencies considers court partnerships with service providers and the community, coordination of information between courts and agencies, and statewide coordination. In examining which coordination mechanisms work most effectively, another chapter examines the quality of dispute resolution, services tailored to the strengths and needs of families or participants, and effective access to justice. The final chapter discusses the creation of a family-focused court, with attention to access; expedition and timeliness; equality, fairness, and integrity; and independence and accountability. 5 figures, 3 tables, 62 references, and appended list of courts and interviewees, coordination mechanisms in courts, and an example of case coordination at work