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Report on Trends in the State Courts

NCJ Number
115800
Date Published
1988
Length
22 pages
Annotation
In an attempt to identify trends, this report discusses over 20 activities undertaken by State courts in 1987 and 1988.
Abstract
Even though some judges object to it because it burdens courts with the administrative duty of generating revenue, many State courts continue to use monies generated from surcharges, filing fees, and fines to finance special programs such as victim compensation, law libraries, and retirement funds. Alternative methods for funding such programs are being sought. Other activities undertaken by State courts include alternative dispute resolution, authorizing and withholding life-sustaining treatment, the use of closed circuit television in courts, the collection of fees and fines, the use of computers and facsimile transmission in court, and contracting with private firms for correction programs and services. Still other courts have explored the use of electronic monitoring programs and alternative sentencing programs. Court security, consolidation, and specialization are also discussed, as are attempts to reduce trial delays, improve judicial selection and sabbaticals, and provide expert assistance to indigent criminal defendants.

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