NCJ Number
116439
Date Published
1989
Length
64 pages
Annotation
This report presents the results of an operational analysis and planning effort designed to improve the functioning of the First Circuit Family Court in Hawaii.
Abstract
Specific criticisms of court operations included a mixed mission that results in tension between the court's adjudicatory and social work mandates; inability to cope with increasing caseloads; excessive time in the resolution of cases, excessive judicial individuality in scheduling and hearing policies; excessive complexity of forms, procedure, and process; and lack of uniformity in overall court practice and procedure. Other problems included poor employee morale and high turnover, excessive paperwork complications, insufficiently precise caseload information, excessive clerical review of technical and substantive issues, and over-reliance on per diem judges. On the basis of this analysis, it was concluded that the court's problems were interrelated: A lack of uniformity and excessive complexity caused excessive judicial individuality and paperwork snarls, leading to case delays and an inability to cope with increasing caseloads. Consequently, an operational plan was formulated to improve caseload management, court organization and process, and administrative organization and process. The components of this plan are based on a recognition of the need to define clearly the court's operational mission, to develop specific goals to reflect that mission, and to develop uniform policies and procedures to achieve these goals. Recommendations are in the process of being implemented. 10 tables and 5 figures.