In anything other than a single-judge court, one judge will have supervisory responsibility for the entire trial bench. Here, we refer to that person as the administrative judge. Other courts may use the term chief judge, presiding judge, or other terminology.
Before a high-profile case arises, the administrative judge is responsible for assessing the court's capabilities and weaknesses to manage a high-profile case, assembling documentation on relevant statutes and rules, and identifying individuals with expertise to fulfill necessary high-profile case team roles. After a high-profile case is filed with the court, the administrative judge is responsible for deciding who will preside over the case and turning over all necessary material to the trial judge.
- Facilitate and initiate the Continuity of Operations (COOP) planning process.
- As soon as it is clear that a case has the potential of being a high profile case, the administrative judge should assign the case and turn over the COOP plan to the trial judge.
- Not all judges are equally qualified to manage a high-profile case. Assignment considerations should include availability, experience, and expertise.
- Maintain open communication with and meet with the trial judge occasionally to assess and address any needs.