NCJ Number
113479
Date Published
1985
Length
188 pages
Annotation
Following a review of the history and management structure of the New Jersey municipal court system, recommendations are offered for improving court management and procedures.
Abstract
In the area of calendar management, recommendations consider community dispute resolution, pretrial intervention, scheduling conflicts and postponements, case processing, court forms, parking matters, defense by affidavit, handling of indictable complaints, and evaluation. Personnel issues examined include tenure, evaluation, limitations on practice, compensation, and qualifications of judges; background investigations of court employees; employment and termination policies, the role of the prosecutor, and appointment of counsel. Budget issues discussed include reporting, caps, impasse procedures, and revenue distribution. Also analyzed are the cost and service of bench warrants, preparation of complaints, interpreters, trial de novo, and bail procedures. Domestic violence, drunk driving, sentencing, victim/witness, plea agreement, public access to court records, and installment payment issues also are addressed. Minimal standards for court facilities and court security are set forth, and computerization of operations is analyzed. Finally, implementation and funding issues are considered. Commentary on recommendations and supplemental materials are included. Chapter references and position cross-references.