NCJ Number
94827
Date Published
1984
Length
26 pages
Annotation
A survey of judges appointed between January 1980 and January 1982 allows this description of orientation methods used by Federal district courts to introduce new judges to judicial tasks and local court practice.
Abstract
Responses to questionnaires sent to 74 recently appointed judges identified 21 districts that had implemented effective orientation efforts. Programs judged effective by the new judges ranged from a highly structured learning experience to the informal incorporation of the newcomer into the ongoing collegiality of the court. In general, the new judge first meets with the chief judge and discusses local rules, case assignment systems, and how to set up chambers. Various reading materials are distributed, along with an invitation to sit with or observe an experienced judge. This opportunity was regarded by many respondents as the most valuable orientation experience. Many districts arrange for new judges to meet with personnel from the court-related agencies with whom they will be dealing. One interesting approach to orientation is to extend the program to members of the new judges' staff. Some districts gradually phase-in judges to a full caseload. Most critical is the new judge's ability to consult easily with other judges as problems arise. Respondents' suggestions to improve orientation are outlined. An orientation checklist and the survey questionnaire are appended.