February 15, 2024
Whether in the form of volunteer legal assistance and civic engagement or the development of mental health programs, the theme of providing resources played a prominent role in state courts in 2023.
Courts are making notable progress in assisting individuals with legal matters through volunteer work. In February, Hawaii celebrated 35,000 pro bono legal consultations at courthouse Self-Help Centers since their founding in October 2011, accomplished through the work of volunteer attorneys, law firms, and professional legal associations. People seeking assistance can visit courthouse Self-Help Centers on Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island, as well as two Access to Justice Rooms on Oahu. With the assistance of hundreds of attorneys, individuals are provided access to legal information and assistance regarding numerous civil matters in family and district courts.
Providing legal aid and advice through public events is another way courts engage with the community. In April, the Tennessee Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission celebrated Help4TNMonth, a supreme court initiative and annual public awareness celebration to emphasize the state’s need for reduced or free legal aid. In collaboration with the Governor’s Office of Reentry, the ATJC hosted a series of Second Chance Resource and Hiring Events featuring job fairs, licensing services, community resources, and expungement consultations to celebrate Second Chance Month in April. The Justice Bus was on location at multiple events, providing further legal assistance with the help of lawyers and other volunteers.
Courts are investing in the health and wellness of legal professionals. The New Jersey Supreme Court Committee on Wellness in the Law was established by Chief Justice Stuart Rabner and announced in May. The committee is tasked with developing mental health recommendations for law students, paralegals, attorneys, and judges. The committee aims to recognize challenges faced by the legal community; examine risks and current resources available for mental health, self-harm, and substance abuse; and identify any necessary changes to address needs more effectively.
Courts are also expanding their available programs for individuals with mental illness in the community. In October, the California Judicial Council launched the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act in seven counties, establishing a court-based program for adults with untreated schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Individuals can petition superior courts to create a voluntary CARE agreement or a court-ordered CARE plan, providing them with psychiatric treatment, housing assistance, and other services. Individuals meeting the seven criteria for eligibility work with local government to develop and participate in a CARE agreement or plan for up to 12 months.
Is your court proactive in addressing self-represented and mental health needs in the community? Share your experiences with us. For more information, contact knowledge@ncsc.org or call 800-616-6164. Follow the National Center for State Courts on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, and Vimeo. For more Trending Topic posts, visit ncsc.org/trendingtopics or subscribe to the LinkedIn newsletter.