Date: 01/17/2006
Final
SUMMARY for JBC Briefing - Judicial Branch
COMMITTEE ON JOINT JUDICIARY
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10:57 AM
Senator Tapia discussed the Judicial Branch and how their budget requests are not included with those of the Executive Branch. He listed some of the key responsibilities of the Judicial Branch, including fair and impartial resolution of civil disputes and criminal charges and appellate review of trial court decisions. He directed the committee to Attachment A for the major funding changes requested by the Judicial Branch, including six new District Court judges, new courthouse staffing, and new probation officers. The major Judicial Branch priorities include new trial and appellate courts, as well as an increase in probation and administrative services. Senator Tapia stressed the need for an expansion of probation staff in order to address caseload issues. He also pointed out that contract attorneys for both the Alternate Defense Counsel and the Office of the Child's Representative are paid very low wages and the goal of the Judicial Branch is to raise those levels incrementally.