NCJ Number
77527
Date Published
1980
Length
33 pages
Annotation
Activities and accomplishments of the National Center for State Courts during 1980 are discussed in this report, and research projects are emphasized.
Abstract
During 1980 the Center conducted a wide range of projects aimed at dealing with the problems of court delay at the trial and appellate level, excessive costs for litigants, accessibility, and fairness and impartiality. Work continued on national research projects in the areas of delay reduction, sentencing guidelines, alternatives to incarceration, juvenile treatment, and mental health. Research commenced on two new projects, one involving choice of jurisdiction in educational equity cases and the other involving the use of scientific evidence in complex cases. New projects focusing on the issuance of search warrants and involuntary civil commitment procedures will be launched in early 1981. These endeavors have helped to carry out one of the Center's primary goals: conducting the research needed to provide solutions for State court problems. National project work also continued during 1980 in the areas of court finance, personnel and equal employment opportunities, judicial information systems, court statistics, the use of technology in courts, standards for jury selection and management, and the operation of small claims courts. These projects support another of the Center's primary goals: to serve as a technical assistance resource for the transfer and adaptation of improvements in court standards, management, and technology. Another primary goal of the center is to serve as a clearinghouse through which members of the court community and others interested in courts can exchange information and encourage improvement in State court administration and practices. This goal is addressed through everyday operations of the Center's regional offices and also through the research and information services provided at the center's headquarters. During 1980, reorganization of the governing structure of the center was undertaken to ensure that the policies, programs, and activities reflect the priority of interests of the judicial systems in the several States. Financially, 1980 was a record year for the center; income from operations reached $7,287,127, an all time high. Photographs, tabular data, and a financial report are provided.