NCJ Number
149457
Date Published
1989
Length
18 pages
Annotation
These recommendations for courts that deal with issues related to children and families were developed by the 50 invited participants in a national symposium held in 1989 and sponsored by the American Bar Association, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, the National Center for State Courts, and the National Judicial Council.
Abstract
Recommended changes include the redefinition of the court mission to recognize that proceedings related to children and families are distinctively different from other proceedings, assurances that courts receive adequate data on which to base decisions, and sufficient resources for courts with jurisdiction over children's and family issues. Improved selection and training of juvenile and family court judges, strengthening of the role and status of court administrators in the family division, increasing use of case consolidation, and clear and enforceable court orders are also needed. Additional recommendations in the areas of mission, information, resources, structure, and enforcement.