NCJ Number
119180
Journal
Judicature Volume: 73 Issue: 1 Dated: (June-July 1989) Pages: 10-16
Date Published
1989
Length
7 pages
Annotation
The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit has developed a structured orientation for new judges, rather than requiring new judges to learn their new job on their own.
Abstract
The program developed following the appointment of 10 new judges under the Omnibus Judgeship Act of 1978. It recognized that new judges need to learn to decide cases and write opinions, interact with colleagues, and handle administrative duties. To help judges adjust to their new roles, the program includes designation of a "big brother" or "big sister" judge, a program for judges at the circuit headquarters in San Francisco, the training of new secretaries, and having the judge sit a "short" calendar. New judges receive an orientation handbook that lists personnel, explains procedures, and covers other technical information. The judges are generally satisfied with the program, although some feel that more needs to be done. The program's results suggest that a mandatory formal program should be provided as a supplement to the informal socialization that already occurs with new judges. Such a program is far more appropriate than leaving new judges to fend for themselves.