https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/ en https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/new-riverside-county-courthouse-menifee-improves-service-public New Riverside County Courthouse in Menifee Improves Service to the PublicCorren, Blaine Mon, 06/02/2025 - 14:10 Feature Completed in the summer of 2024, the new Menifee Justice Center in Riverside County stands as a symbol of the judicial branch’s commitment to increasing access to justice and court services for county residents. Recognizing this facility upgrade for the public, the Southern California chapter of the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) honored the courthouse project with its Project Achievement Award. The award “recognizes projects that serve as an example to the industry and are true pinnacles of excellence and innovation.” New Courthouse Features The Menifee courthouse offers services not possible due to space restrictions in the county’s other court facilities, such as enhanced and expanded jury assembly and deliberation rooms, an adequately sized self-help center and children's waiting room, and attorney interview/witness waiting rooms. The new building also addressed overcrowding, security, and accessibility issues in the court’s previous facility. Building Is Energy Efficient The building’s sustainability features satisfy the California Energy Code and qualify it for a LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council. This is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance “green” buildings, which aligns with the judicial branch's goal of reducing its carbon footprint.  The courthouse’s sustainability features include drought-tolerant landscaping, efficient irrigation and plumbing systems, and energy-efficient lighting. Community Input into New Courthouse A broad-based Project Advisory Group for the courthouse project consisted of community, legal, and government leaders. The group provided input throughout the site selection, design, and construction process. In addition, public input was a part of the environmental review process. Part of a Statewide Courthouse Construction Program  The new courthouse project in Menifee was ranked as an “Immediate Need” in the judicial branch’s capital-outlay plan, making it among the branch’s highest-priority infrastructure projects. Since the state judicial branch took over responsibility for courthouses in 2002, the judicial branch construction program has completed 35 new courthouse projects, with another 18 projects underway and in various stages. These include new court facilities in both large and small counties, as well as urban and rural areas across the state. For more information on the Menifee Justice Center, visit the California court’s website at courts.ca.gov/facilities/riverside-county-new-menifee-justice-center. To see photos of the courthouse dedication ceremony celebrating the renovation project, visit the California Courts Flickr channel. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/glenn-county-courthouse-willows-classic-blend-style-and-substance Glenn County Courthouse in Willows a Classic Blend of Style and SubstanceCorren, Blaine Thu, 04/24/2025 - 13:37 Feature Completed in November 2023, the renovation of the Willows Courthouse in Glenn County achieved upgrades to the building without compromising the facility’s historic integrity. Recognizing this achievement, the California Preservation Foundation recently awarded the renovation project with its Preservation Design Award for Rehabilitation, which honors the best historic preservation projects in California. The foundation will honor this year’s recipients at an award ceremony on May 9 at the California Museum in Downtown Sacramento. The Renovated Historic Building Is More Efficient, Secure Originally built in 1894 and located at 526 West Sycamore Street in Willows, the renovated and expanded historic courthouse consolidates court operations from three facilities in two cities, hearing all case types and providing a full range of court services to residents of Glenn County. The renovation project not only increased operational efficiency for the court, but also improved security and seismic strength, and upgraded mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. The building’s improved security features include entrance screening of all court users, and improved fire and life safety systems. The courthouse’s sustainability features include energy-efficient lighting, drought-tolerant landscaping, and water-efficient irrigation and plumbing systems. The courthouse also has a self-help center, mediation and settlement spaces, and holding facilities for in-custody defendants. Expansion Project Preserved the Historic Nature of the Building After gaining title to the property from the county in 2011, the state Judicial Council acquired additional land to the rear of the building to construct the annex that allowed the court to consolidate its operations at one location. The council, the court, and the construction vendors worked together to add a two-courtroom annex that would complement the original historic structure. As required by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior's Standards, the new two-story addition is compatible with the historic building’s size, scale, and architectural features but different enough to preserve the original building’s character. “The court is very pleased that the California Preservation Foundation has chosen to recognize and honor this unique historic courthouse renovation project that preserves the courthouse’s identity and its place as a central and iconic fixture of the City of Willows and the Glenn County community,” stated Presiding Judge Donald Cole Byrd. Part of a Statewide Courthouse Construction Program  The courthouse renovation project was ranked as an “Immediate Need” in the judicial branch’s capital-outlay plan, making it among the branch’s highest-priority infrastructure projects. Since the state judicial branch took over responsibility for courthouses in 2002, the judicial branch construction program has completed 35 new courthouse projects, with another 18 projects underway and in various stages. These include new court facilities in both large and small counties, as well as urban and rural areas across the state. For more information on the Willows Courthouse, visit the California court’s website at www.courts.ca.gov/facilities-glenn.htm. To see photos of the courthouse dedication ceremony celebrating the renovation project, visit the California Courts Flickr channel. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/2024-year-review-judicial-council-california 2024 Year in Review: Judicial Council of CaliforniaCorren, Blaine Tue, 12/17/2024 - 15:52 Feature In 2024, California’s Chief Justice, the Judicial Council, and the courts continued their efforts to improve court operations, enhance services, and expand access to the justice system for the public. The following are highlights of those efforts: Chief Justice Delivers 2024 State of the Judiciary AddressChief Justice Patricia Guerrero delivered her annual State of the Judiciary address to the California Legislature. In her remarks, she emphasized her goals for the judicial branch, which include accountability in the use of public resources, efficient caseflow management, and safeguarding the integrity of the court and judicial decision-making. She also affirmed the judicial branch’s commitment to enhancing access to justice for the people of California. Using technology as an example, she explained how the courts are helping to increase access through remote services and tools—including 24/7 e-filing, access to online records and research, self-help resources, and remote appearances. A recent Judicial Council report showed that approximately 150,000 remote civil proceedings are conducted statewide each month; and more than 90% of court users and 98% of court staff reported positive experiences.   Online Tool to Request Reductions to Traffic Tickets Goes StatewideThe MyCitations online tool allows low-income individuals with infraction violations to request a reduction in their fines and fees without going to the courthouse. Users can also request a payment plan, more time to pay, or community service. Launched in the first court in April 2019, the MyCitations tool was successfully implemented in all 58 counties before July 1, 2024. Since its launch, more than 183,000 litigants have submitted requests to reduce their fines, resulting in more than $65 million in reductions. Adding to the MyCitations tool’s functionality, a new Online Trial by Declaration module allows a defendant to contest eligible traffic citations by submitting a written statement and uploading evidence online.   Filling the Justice Gap: Expanding Services for People Without AttorneysThe statewide Pathways to Justice conference brought together members of the legal community to highlight services and tools to help court users in civil cases who can’t afford attorneys. Cosponsored by the Judicial Council of California, the State Bar of California, and the Legal Aid Association of California, conference attendees included nonprofit legal services providers, private bar pro bono volunteers, and staff from court departments and self-help centers. The conference highlighted a broad range of strategies used to expand access to the legal system, including technology, AI, childcare, pro bono work, lawyer referral services, and language access. It also offered training in areas like housing, family law, and domestic violence, in which parties are often without attorneys.   California Courts Launch CARE Act StatewideThis year all 58 trial courts in California began accepting petitions under the CARE Act, which authorizes specified people to petition a civil court to create a voluntary CARE agreement or a court-ordered CARE plan that can include treatment, housing support, and other services for persons with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. Per the CARE Act statute, implementation started in October 2023, with seven counties (Glenn, Orange, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco, Stanislaus, Tuolumne), and Los Angeles County followed two months later. The remaining 50 counties met the legislative deadline for accepting petitions by Dec. 2, 2024. Since the CARE Act took effect, the council has supported the rollout by: Creating new court rules and forms, as well as fact sheets, webinars, and videos to educate courts and the public about the CARE Act process   Meeting with courts and county stakeholders—including monthly office hours—to gauge progress, identify challenges, and provide technical assistance   Helping translate court documents and videos into other languages, including Spanish, Khmer, Tagalog, and Farsi   Collecting data on the program’s implementation, which it reports quarterly to the California Department of Health Care Services Statewide CARE Act data has shown the number of petitions filed each month has been relatively steady since its launch in the early implementing counties—with a total of 869 petitions filed from Oct. 1, 2023, through Oct. 31, 2024. During that same time, courts ordered more than 175 care agreements and plans, and 516 petitions were still being actively engaged.   Pilot Program to Address Court Interpreters ShortageA retiring workforce, geographic constraints, and testing capacity are making it difficult for courts to meet the demand for interpreting. To address the shortage of interpreters, the state’s judicial branch launched a five-year pilot program to hire more court interpreter employees, dedicating $6.8 million in funding made available from the 2023 Budget Act. The Court Interpreter Workforce Pilot Program reimburses participants for costs associated with their training, coursework, and up to three examination fees. Program graduates must also agree to work for the courts for at least three years after passing all the required exams and enroll with the Judicial Council as a court interpreter. Twenty superior courts are participating in the first cohort of the program and collectively received more than 1,000 applications. Each court may have up to 10 candidates per year. Applications for cohort 2 will open in spring 2025.   Courts Continue to Improve the Juror ExperienceRecognizing the integral role jurors play in our justice system, following are some recent judicial branch initiatives to improve jury service in California: Pilot program in seven trial courts to improve juror diversity and participation by increasing juror pay from $15 a day to $100 per day and the mileage reimbursement from $0.34 to $0.67 per mile roundtrip—the pilot will end by early 2026 or when the funding is exhausted, whichever comes first   Pilot project in Stanislaus County to test the feasibility of paying jurors electronically via Zelle to shorten the time for jurors to get paid at the conclusion of their service and reduce administrative costs for the court—the council’s Court Executives Advisory Committee will review the pilot findings and consider a statewide rollout   Continuing to increase the use of telephone standby and on-call options for jury service, where individuals can check the night, and sometimes the week before, whether they will be asked to come to court in person   Providing jurors brochures with mental health information and strategies to cope with any service-related stress they may experience In addition, the council recently approved simplifying the language used for the oaths administered to jurors and prospective jurors to ensure they fully understand the oaths before voir dire and prior to being seated for a jury trial.   Thousands of Volunteers Advocate for Children in CourtThe council approved $2.713 million in grants to help fund 45 CASA programs that help support children when they must move to new homes for their own protection. During this time of transition, judicial officers can appoint them a CASA (court appointed special advocate), a trained volunteer that advocates for children in juvenile court. CASA volunteers spend time with the child, monitor their needs, and provide child-focused recommendations on services and education based on the best interests of the child. Unlike other mentoring programs, CASAs serve as an officer of the court, trained on topics such as the impact of trauma on children, cultural competency, and dependency laws. More than 7,000 CASA volunteers serve approximately 11,000 children, donating 400,000 hours per year to help children, judges, and other professionals in the state’s juvenile courts. Despite this enormous impact, more CASAs are needed for the roughly 70,000 children in foster care.   25th Anniversary of Court Adoption and Permanency MonthMore than two decades of collaborative efforts among the Judicial Council, the superior courts, and partners in child welfare has achieved positive progress in improving adoption and permanency in California. Comparing data from 1999 and 2023, the number of children entering foster care for the first time decreased by 51%, and the number of children living apart from their families decreased by 58%. In addition, the council approved new court forms to simplify, clarify, and provide additional guidance for parents during the adoption process. The revised “How to Adopt a Child in California” form now clarifies the necessary steps to finalize distinct types of adoptions, including adoptions of children of Native American ancestry. The council also approved a new form specifically designed for stepparent adoptions. Court self-help center staff identified stepparent adoptions as the most common types for which they provide assistance and the ones having the most confusing processes for self-represented litigants.   New Courthouses Improve Safety, Service for Court UsersThe judicial branch completed new courthouses in Menifee (Riverside County) and Redding (Shasta County). The new buildings address overcrowding, security, and accessibility issues, and help consolidate and improve court services for their communities. Since assuming responsibility for court construction in 2002, the council has completed 35 new courthouses, and another 16 are underway in various stages. These include new court facilities in both large and small counties, as well as urban and rural areas across the state. California Improving Courthouse SustainabilitySustainability efforts employed at courthouses across the state continue to use green energy, reduce emissions, and improve waste management. The judicial branch has already achieved either gold or silver LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council for 21 courthouses across the state and has seven more certifications in progress. LEED certification is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance “green” buildings. Those “green” strategies include water conservation, solar panels, EV (electric vehicle) charger stations, and setting sustainability standards for courthouse construction. The latest California Trial Court Facilities Standards approved in September of this year target a 12% increase in water conservation and a 15% increase in energy efficiency—or more if budgets allow—for future new courthouse projects. Additional long-term goals include electrifying heating systems and increasing the use of renewable energy.   Chief Justice Creates Task Force on Use of Generative AI in the California CourtsThe judicial branch launched a new judicial branch task force to evaluate generative artificial intelligence (AI) for its potential benefits to courts and court users while mitigating risks to safeguard the public. Earlier this year, Chief Justice Guerrero asked Justice Mary Greenwood and Judge Arturo Castro to help identify the foundational questions the California court system must consider regarding the appropriate uses of AI. In response to their report, Chief Justice Guerrero announced the following next steps for the judicial branch: Create an AI task force to oversee the consideration and development of branch actions that address generative AI, such as rules of court, technology policies, educational programs, and legislative proposals   Work with Supreme Court ethics committees to develop guidance on how judicial officers should navigate ethical issues associated with generative AI   Provide education for judicial officers, court professionals, and council staff that focuses on the uses, benefits, and risks of generative AI   Cybersecurity for the Courts The judicial branch made strides in safeguarding the courts and their personnel against cyber threats. A key focus was education, highlighted by a series of interactive cybersecurity webinars that equipped judicial officers and judicial branch staff with critical knowledge to protect both institutional and personal digital assets. Topics included recognizing phishing attempts, securing devices, and mitigating risks. To reinforce these efforts, the branch conducted phishing exercises throughout the year, enabling staff to practice identifying and responding to simulated threats in real time. These exercises not only improved awareness but also strengthened the branch's overall defense mechanisms against cyberattacks. Additionally, the courts bolstered cybersecurity by expanding endpoint protection, ensuring devices are better equipped to detect, prevent, and respond to threats. Reduction to Court Budgets Impacts Service to the Public In addition to a $97 million reduction to the trial courts, the fiscal year 2024-25 state budget also called for a commensurate reduction of 7.95% to the state-level judiciary, which includes the Supreme Court, Courts of Appeal, Habeas Corpus Resource Center, and the Judicial Council. To help manage the reductions, many of the state's trial courts froze hiring, adopted furloughs, and reduced hours at their clerks’ offices and public counters. Despite the cutbacks, the courts are making every effort to minimize delays and preserve public access to justice. The Judicial Council also implemented proactive cost-saving measures, such as hiring freezes, reduced travel, and shifting meetings online. Court leaders continued outreach to their local legislators to educate them on the work of the courts, and to communicate the operational impacts the budget cuts are having on court services to the public.   California Continues Work to Diversify the BenchThe council surveys California justices and judges at the end of each year to get a snapshot of the demographics of the California bench—including gender, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. For the 18th straight year since tracking this data, the number of women and people of color on the bench has increased. Female judicial officers now constitute 41% of our judges. The number of Asian, Black, and Hispanic judges has doubled during that same time. Supporting the goal of “Access, Fairness, Diversity, and Inclusion,” the council’s diversity initiatives also include the Judicial Mentor Program, a statewide undertaking between the executive and judicial branches to develop and recruit qualified and diverse judicial applicants for the state’s appellate and superior courts. The appellate and superior courts have also started their own local mentor programs. The council also created an online toolkit called Pathways to Judicial Diversity. The toolkit has resources designed to help judges and courts reach out to diverse law students and attorneys and encourage them to pursue judicial careers.   Judicial Branch Continues to Expand Civic LearningThe Chief Justice's Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative continued to expand its reach into more California’s schools. The initiative’s Civic Learning Awards program encourages K-12 public schools to share how they promote opportunities for students inside the classroom and in their communities. The program has presented the Civic Learning Award 540 times to 343 schools in the last decade—21 elementary, middle, and high schools across California were recognized in 2024. Schools at the highest level, Award of Excellence, traditionally receive a visit from California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, while judges from other courts present the awards of Distinction, Merit, and Honorable Mention.  The initiative’s Judges in the Classroom program enables teachers to invite judges to visit their classrooms (either in-person or virtual) and engage their classes in lessons on the U.S. Constitution, Rule of Law, Voting Rights, or Historical Milestones in the making of our democracy. In 2024, the Judges in the Classroom program engaged 30% more courts and schools than it did last year. Currently, 353 volunteer judges representing 32 counties around the state support the initiative. Last school year alone, the program reached more than 13,000 students.   Judicial Branch Honors Individuals for Outstanding Service The Judicial Council honored three recipients with its 2024 Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes people and organizations for their extraordinary leadership and contributions to the administration of justice in California. This year’s recipients—Justice William W. Bedsworth, Judge Terry B. Friedman (Ret.), and Court Executive Officer Melissa Fowler-Bradley—were honored for their work related to advocating for civility within the legal profession, improving the court system for families and children, and leading court-based innovations to better serve the public. Watch these videos to learn about all of this year's award recipients. Chief Justice Guerrero and the Judicial Council also honored the thousands of additional public servants of California's judicial branch the first week of May during Public Service Recognition Week. This video below, produced by the council, highlights six of California's dedicated public servants, who speak about why they choose to serve in the judicial branch. Overview of Judicial Council Programs and Services Under the leadership of the Chief Justice and in accordance with the California Constitution, the Judicial Council is responsible for ensuring the consistent, independent, impartial, and accessible administration of justice. The council carries out this mission through the work of its advisory bodies and staff that help develop and implement the policies and solutions to the issues confronting the California court system. The council also provides direct programs and services in multiple areas to ensure the courts can maintain meaningful access to the justice system for the public. Examples of just some of those service areas include: Budget, accounting, procurement, and audits—including management, distribution, and reporting on billions of dollars in court funding each year   Human resources—including HR and payroll administration for the nearly 3,000 state justices, judges, and appellate court and judicial branch employees   Information technology—including oversight for the California Courts public website, which averages 75,000 visitors per month   Education and training for judges and court staff—including more than 150 courses, webinars, videos, and podcasts per year   Courthouse construction, management, and emergency planning and security—including management of approximately 450 court facilities encompassing more than 19.8 million square feet, and annually completing more than 1,700 facility modification projects and addressing roughly 115,000 building service work orders   Legal services—including the annual development of hundreds of new and amended court rules and forms, and providing counsel on thousands of legal matters and agreements for the courts each year   Legislative advocacy—including the annual tracking of nearly 1,000 bills and the submission of approximately 50 position letters   Public affairs—including answering more than 2,000 inquiries for information from media and the public each year More information on the Judicial Council ____________________________________________________________________ Stay connected in 2025 by subscribing to the California Courts Newsroom and Twitter/X feed. (See bottom of this page for links) https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/court-facilities-advisory-committee-approves-site-new-nevada-county-courthouse Court Facilities Advisory Committee Approves Site for New Nevada County CourthouseCorren, Blaine Tue, 11/05/2024 - 10:25 News Release The Judicial Council’s Court Facilities Advisory Committee at its meeting today approved the USDA National Forest Service Office location at 631 Coyote Street in Nevada City as the preferred site for a new courthouse in Nevada County. The committee also approved the land containing the parcels at the corner of Highway 49 and Cement Hill Road in Nevada City as the alternative site, which is required for moving forward with CEQA review of the project. In deciding on the two finalist sites, the committee considered factors such as: Preliminary environmental site assessments Potential biological, cultural, and tribal cultural considerations Site boundaries, topography, access routes, proximity to justice partners and services, potential flood zones, seismic zones, and other issues Once completed, the new building will house the court’s operations currently located in the historic Nevada City Courthouse, and will provide an accessible, efficient, and modern full-service courthouse. The new facility will also improve security, operational efficiency, and customer service. Next Steps Now that the committee has approved the selection of the preferred and alternative sites, the Judicial Council must request approval from the State Public Works Board (SPWB) to proceed. If approved, council staff will engage in purchase negotiations and coordinate further analysis of the preferred site. The council will perform additional real estate due diligence, and implement CEQA and other environmental regulatory requirements. Public outreach will occur at the commencement of CEQA (Notice of Preparation) and at the publication of the draft CEQA document. After further analysis, terms, conditions, and price are determined, a request to acquire the site will be presented to the SPWB for approval. For more information on the project, visit www.courts.ca.gov/76091.htm. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-improving-courthouse-sustainability California Improving Courthouse SustainabilityCorren, Blaine Fri, 09/20/2024 - 10:26 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—The Judicial Council heard a presentation at its September 20 meeting on sustainability efforts the judicial branch is employing at courthouses across the state. “At the heart of our mission are the core values of integrity, reliability, innovation, and efficiency,” said Judge Eric Wersching, a member of the council’s Court Facilities Advisory Committee. “We support access and infrastructure, ensuring that our facilities meet the needs of the judiciary and the public.”     The presentation focused on key courthouse projects that enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, conserve water, and improve waste management. Efforts include: Water conservation Solar procurement EV (electric vehicle) charger installations Setting additional sustainability standards for courthouse construction In calendar year 2023, California’s judicial branch reduced the annual water consumption in courthouses statewide by more than 17% compared to the 2019 baseline year. In addition, the council adopted new standards last year that allow the council to target a 12% increase in water conservation and a 15% increase in energy efficiency for its future new courthouse projects. Currently, the branch has already achieved either gold or silver LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council for 21 courthouses across the state and has seven more certifications in progress. LEED certification is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance “green” buildings. Additional long-term goals for the state’s court facilities include electrifying heating systems and increasing the use of renewable energy. The judicial branch will also seek additional funding for sustainability projects in the state budget, and from available grants and rebates. Watch Judicial Branch Takes Lead on Environmental Law The council received an update on the importance of environmental law as an emerging area of legal practice. The presentation included an overview of environmental law and climate change, and the role of the California judiciary as a thought leader and leader in judicial education in this area. “Judges are tasked with making informed decisions on complex issues that can significantly impact public health, economic development, and sustainability of ecosystems,” said Justice Ronald Robie. “Judges are responsible for interpreting legislation and ensuring environmental policies and implemented effectively and justly.” The council also heard about California’s complex regulatory framework, standards, and diverse geography and ecosystems that make environmental law such a complex area of the law. The presentation detailed how education for the state’s judges is preparing them to preside over these cases and deal with issues such as scientific testimony, specialized pleadings, and the technical trial process and case management. “These cases often involve complex scientific evidence and large-scale impacts, requiring judges to have a nuanced understanding of both environmental law and science,” added Justice Stacy Boulware Eurie. “Through our education offerings, we strive to ensure that judicial officers are prepared to manage these multifaceted cases effectively.” Watch Other Items on Council Meeting Agenda: Judicial Education on Treatment of Sexual Abuse and Assault Victims: Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero directed the council’s Center for Judicial Education and Research to review the judicial branch’s current training related to the treatment of sexual abuse and assault victims, adding that “everyone entering our courtrooms deserve to be treated with respect and in a manner that gives them trust and confidence our judicial system.” The Chief Justice also called on the council’s education office to ensure its training meets best practices and to make it widely available to all judicial officers statewide. Watch New Court Rules and Forms: The council approved 28 agenda items related to new rules and forms to help implement new legislation or improve case procedures. These include changes in the areas of appellate procedure, civil, criminal, protective orders, probate/conservatorships, traffic, and family and juvenile proceedings. The council also received a presentation on the detailed and collaborative process for creating and revising rules and forms, which includes a period for public comment. The presentation also detailed how the rules and forms help the public navigate the litigation process and ensure the court has the necessary information to help move cases forward. Watch Revisions to Judicial Branch Contracting Manual: The council approved revisions to the Judicial Branch Contracting Manual. The revisions, which become effective on Oct. 1, implement the recommendation from the California State Auditor to add fraud reporting requirements that are substantially similar to the State Administrative Manual. New and Reappointed Council Members: The Chief Justice welcomed the eight recently appointed council members taking part in their first official business meeting since they started their terms Sept. 15. She also acknowledged the five reappointed members for agreeing to continue their work on the council. Each year more than 400 judicial officers, court executives, attorneys, and public servants volunteer to serve on the council and its advisory bodies. Watch Judicial Council Member Nominated for Federal Bench: Council member Judge Michelle Williams Court has been nominated for the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California. If Judge Williams Court is approved at her confirmation hearing on September 25, she will vacate her seat on the council. Other council members acknowledged and thanked her for her work while on the council. The complete meeting agenda and council reports are posted to the California Courts Meeting Information Center--an archived webcast of today’s meeting is posted. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-hear-about-california-courthouse-sustainability-efforts Judicial Council to Hear About California Courthouse Sustainability EffortsCorren, Blaine Fri, 09/13/2024 - 16:43 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—The Judicial Council at its September 20 meeting will hear a presentation on current sustainability efforts the judicial branch is employing at courthouses across the state. The presentation will focus on key projects that enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, conserve water, and improve waste management. Efforts include: Water conservation Solar procurement EV (electric vehicle) charger installations Setting additional sustainability standards for courthouse construction Currently, the state judicial branch has already achieved either gold or silver LEED certification by the U.S. Green Building Council for 21 courthouses across the state and has seven more certifications in progress. LEED certification is a third-party certification program and the nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction, and operation of high-performance “green” buildings. Judicial Branch Takes Lead on Environmental Law The council will receive an update on the importance of environmental law as an emerging area of legal practice. The presentation will include an overview of environmental law and climate change, and the role of the California judiciary as a thought leader and leader in judicial education. The council will hear about California’s intricate regulatory framework, standards, and diverse geography and ecosystems that make environmental law such a complex area of the law. The presentation will also detail how education for the state’s judges is preparing them to preside over these complex cases. Other Items on Council Meeting Agenda: Revisions to Judicial Branch Contracting Manual: The council will consider proposed revisions to the Judicial Branch Contracting Manual. The proposed revisions would implement the recommendation from the California State Auditor to add fraud reporting requirements that are substantially similar to the State Administrative Manual. New Court Rules and Forms: The council will consider 28 agenda items related to new rules and forms to help implement new legislation or improve case procedures. These include changes in the areas of appellate procedure, civil, criminal, protective orders, probate/conservatorships, traffic, and family and juvenile proceedings. The complete council meeting agenda and council reports are posted to the California Courts Meeting Information Center. A link to a live webcast of the meeting will be on the California Courts website on the day of the meeting. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/photos-california-chief-justice-helps-dedicate-courthouses-redding-and-willows Photos: California Chief Justice Helps Dedicate Courthouses in Redding and WillowsCorren, Blaine Tue, 04/16/2024 - 12:46 Feature Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero joined judges and staff from the Superior Court of Shasta County and the Superior Court of Glenn County to officially commemorate courthouses in Redding and Willows on Apr. 11 and 12, respectively. The ceremonies included remarks by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, the courts’ judges, and Judicial Council Administrative Director Shelley Curran. “These courthouses provide much-needed improvements to court services and will help ensure that we can live up to our promise of providing safe, secure, and equal access to justice for people throughout the state," said Chief Justice Guerrero.   See photos from the Redding and Willows courthouse dedication ceremonies Since the state judicial branch took over responsibility for courthouses in 2002, the judicial branch construction program has completed 35 new courthouse projects and another 18 projects are underway and in various stages. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-chief-justice-help-celebrate-renovationexpansion-glenn-county-courthouse-willows California Chief Justice to Help Celebrate the Renovation/Expansion of the Glenn County Courthouse in WillowsCorren, Blaine Thu, 03/28/2024 - 17:28 News Release What:  California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero will join judges and staff from the Superior Court of Glenn County to officially commemorate the renovation and expansion of the Willows Courthouse. The courthouse officially reopened for business November 1, 2023. Since the state judicial branch took over responsibility for courthouses in 2002, the judicial branch construction program has completed 35 new courthouse projects and another 18 projects are underway and in various stages. Who:  The ceremony will include remarks by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Presiding Judge Donald Byrd, and Judicial Council Administrative Director Shelley Curran When:  Friday, April 12, 2024, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Where:  Front steps of new Glenn County Courthouse, 526 West Sycamore Street, Willows (in case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held across the street inside the Glenn County Civic Memorial Building Hall) NOTE: The ceremony is open to the public and invites media to attend—email courtadmin@glenncourt.ca.gov to RSVP. Tours of the courthouse will be available after the ceremony. Why:  The renovation/expansion consolidated court services at one location, addressed security and seismic issues, and increased operational efficiency. For more information, visit the California court’s website at www.courts.ca.gov/facilities-glenn.htm. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-chief-justice-dedicate-new-shasta-county-courthouse-redding California Chief Justice to Dedicate New Shasta County Courthouse in ReddingCorren, Blaine Wed, 03/27/2024 - 13:14 News Release What:  California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero will join judges and staff from the Superior Court of Shasta County to officially commemorate the completion of the new Redding Courthouse. The new courthouse officially opened for business February 13. Since the state judicial branch took over responsibility for courthouses in 2002, the judicial branch construction program has completed 35 new courthouse projects and another 18 projects are underway and in various stages. Who:  The ceremony will include remarks by Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, Presiding Judge Adam Ryan, Retired Shasta County Judge Steven E. Jahr, and Judicial Council Administrative Director Shelley Curran When:  Thursday, April 11, 2024, 5:30–7:00 p.m. Where:  New Shasta County Courthouse, Jury Assembly Room, 1515 Court Street, Redding NOTE: The ceremony is open to the public and invites media to attend—email Administration@shasta.courts.ca.gov to RSVP. Why:  The building consolidates adult and juvenile court services in Shasta County and addresses overcrowding, security, and accessibility issues. For more information, visit the California court’s website at www.courts.ca.gov/facilities-shasta.htm. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/location-new-nevada-city-courthouse-narrowed-down-three-potential-sites Location for New Nevada City Courthouse Narrowed Down to Three Potential SitesCorren, Blaine Thu, 03/21/2024 - 16:32 News Release NEVADA CITY—At its March 13 meeting, the Project Advisory Group for the new Nevada City Courthouse agreed on the three top potential sites for the new building: USDA National Forest Service Office location Melo Pello/Hirschman area—northwest corner of Cement Hill Road and Hwy 49 Parcels at the corner of Highway 49 and Coyote Project Advisory Group Members and Scoring Criteria The Project Advisory Group—which includes local representatives from the court, Nevada City government, attorneys, law enforcement, and the community—scored a total of 14 potential sites for the new building suggested by advisory group members and other local residents and potential sellers. The scoring criteria weighed many factors, such as: Parcel size Surrounding properties Site characteristics (near the jail, other government offices, downtown/city center, etc.) Traffic and transportation Security concerns Environmental issues Benefits of a New Courthouse The new courthouse will replace and consolidate the court’s operations and courtrooms located in the county-owned Nevada City Courthouse and Courthouse Annex buildings—originally constructed in 1864 and 1964 respectively. The court's current space is also overcrowded, has insufficient space for security screening and jury assembly and deliberation, and has no separate hallway to keep in-custody defendants away from the public. The new courthouse will relieve the current space shortfall and improve safety, security, and accessibility. Next Steps At each of the three finalist sites, experts will: Perform preliminary environmental assessments Identify potential biological, cultural, and tribal cultural considerations Determine the site boundaries, topography, access routes, proximity to justice partners and services, potential flood zones, geological conditions, seismic zones, and other construction issues Once the above tasks are complete, the local Project Advisory Group will again score and rank the final three sites—the findings will then be reviewed/analyzed by the Judicial Council, the court, and the Project Advisory Group to confirm one preferred and one alternate site. Those two sites will then be presented to the council’s Administrative Director and at a public meeting of the council’s Court Facilities Advisory Committee. The public can provide written or in-person comments at committee meetings—dates and meeting agendas are posted on the committee’s public webpage. The property acquisition phase is appropriated and funded. The site can be selected and purchased, noting that the next phase of the project, performance criteria, originally anticipated for appropriation in fiscal year 2025-26, is reliant on improvement of state revenues. For more information on the project and the site selection process, visit the New Nevada City Courthouse project webpage. Part of a Statewide Courthouse Construction ProgramThe New Nevada City Courthouse was ranked as an “Immediate Need” in the judicial branch’s capital-outlay plan, making it among the branch’s highest-priority infrastructure projects. Since the state’s judicial branch assumed responsibility for court construction and maintenance in 2002, the branch has completed 35 new courthouse projects and 18 are currently under way. These include new court facilities in both large and small counties, as well as urban and rural areas across the state.