NCJ Number
199279
Date Published
2002
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This document is the final summary of the activities of the Arizona Judicial Branch for the year 2001.
Abstract
Under the direction of Chief Justice Thomas Zlaket, the Arizona Judiciary has focused on four goals over the past 5 years: protecting children, families, and communities; providing access to swift, fair justice; connecting with the community; and being accountable. The report details the improvements that have occurred in each of these target areas, beginning with the improvements made to the family courts and juvenile detention centers. The Juvenile Detention Enhancement Program turned $171 million into safe, secure juvenile detention facilities. Payments of restitution and fees have also improved under the direction of Chief Justice Zlaket, as have the Superior Court facilities, which have undergone remodeling to better serve the community. Improvements and innovations in attorney oversight and technology have brought better access to swift and fair justice for Arizona residents. Toward the goal of connecting with the community, the Judicial Branch has implemented Citizen Summits designed to offer citizens an opportunity to talk with local judges and court personnel. Additionally, a Web site was launched to bring pertinent and current court information to Arizona residents. Finally, court accountability was addressed by instituting a State of the Judiciary Address in which Chief Justice Zlaket reported on the condition of the Arizona’s Judicial Branch. Statistical information about court operations is also presented in this report. Highlights include the fact that over 2.4 million cases were filed with Arizona courts in 2001, indicating a decrease of 0.4 percent from the previous year. The average cost of filing a case in Arizona in 2001 was $119.05.