NCJ Number
170464
Date Published
1998
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This information brief addresses options for assessing judicial workload and certifying the need for additional judges.
Abstract
The paper recommends that the Florida Supreme Court adopt a weighted caseload system for assessing judicial workload and certifying the need for additional judges. The weighted caseload method recognizes that cases differ in complexity and require different amounts of time from judges and other resources. Adopting a weighted caseload system would significantly improve the accuracy of assessments of the workload of the judicial branch. As a result, the Supreme Court, the Legislature, and local governments could make more informed decisions about the use and distribution of judicial resources. In addition, a weighted caseload system would assist the Court in implementing performance-based budgeting for the judicial branch. Experts estimate that implementing a weighted caseload system would cost approximately $52,000. Similar costs would be incurred every 4 years when the weights were updated. Exhibit