Nebraska chief justice outlines efficiency effort

Nebraska chief justice outlines efficiency effort

StoryDiscussionNebraska chief justice outlines efficiency effort

Associated Press
Posted: Thursday, January 19, 2012 11:03 am

Nebraska Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael Heavican outlined plans Thursday for a new, regional approach to court services designed to improve efficiency.

Heavican told lawmakers in his fifth annual State of the Judiciary address that the courts are launching a series of pilot programs this year, with help from the National Center for State Courts.

"It is hoped that these projects can serve as models for rural courts and allow us to preserve jobs in communities with fewer needs, while easing the burden of courts which have greater demands on staff time," he said.

The plans were part of a wide-ranging speech that highlighted the court's role in helping children and the elderly, as well as the rise of computer technology to process cases.

Heavican said one pilot program will allow service-sharing across county lines. Judge Anne Paine of McCook is conducting another pilot program in the 11th judicial district, in which one employee will oversee the collection of fines from all courts in the 17-county area.

The chief justice said he anticipates a rise in the number of guardianships and conservatorship cases, driven by the state's growing elderly population. While the total population of the state is expected to grow 11 percent by 2030, he said, the number of Nebraskans between the ages of 70 and 79 is expected to grow by more than 80 percent.

Heavican said the courts have adopted the requirements of a new state law requiring background checks for guardians and conservators, who make decisions for elderly relatives or others who are incapacitated. The law, which went into effect Jan. 1, also requires that conservators post bonds when the assets of their wards are greater than $10,000.

"None of us is naïve enough to believe that elderly persons will no longer be subject to abuse," Heavican said. "But the statutory changes made by the Legislature, which are being implemented by the judicial branch, will provide for better checks and balances."

He said child welfare remains a top priority for the courts, and highlighted the success of a Douglas County pilot program that allowed juveniles on probation to access rehabilitative services without becoming state wards. Heavican said 635 juveniles participated in the program, and 83 percent were able to stay in their own homes.

"We think this program is both efficient and effective," he said. "We hope the program will be fully funded and expanded to at least one county in rural Nebraska."

Omaha Sen. Bob Krist and five other lawmakers have introduced a measure this session, LB985, that would create a statewide pilot program for juveniles. The proposal is part of a broader effort this year to overhaul the state's troubled child welfare system.

Heavican's remarks touched on themes similar to his earlier State of the Judiciary speeches. Last year, the chief justice emphasized the state's duty to protect children and the elderly


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