NCJ Number
152426
Date Published
Unknown
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video portrays how various public defender offices have engaged in the use of an integrated case management information system, budget management, personnel management, and community relations.
Abstract
In describing the integrated case management system, the video presents a brief dramatized portrayal of the problems that arise when a public defender office does not have such a system. The features of the integrated case management system are described through a profile of the Solano County (California) public defender. The various forms used and information contained on the forms are described, as well as the process of case tracking. The procedure is not computerized. Diagrammed illustrations are used to portray the forms and process. The segment on budget management focuses on the documentation and approaches used to negotiate an increased budget. The video portrays an actual budget negotiation between a representative of the public defender's office and a county executive. Issues discussed include time factors in various types of cases, permissible staff caseloads, and the uncontrollable factors that impact the budgetary requirements of public defender offices. The video segment on personnel management focuses on personnel supervision, training, and participatory management. The segment on community relations suggests the establishment of a community board that includes representation from social service agencies and the public defender's office. This board would communicate with the public about the various services that the agencies perform. Other community relations endeavors are designed to interpret the role of the public defender's office and the importance of its work for the proper functioning of the criminal justice system.