https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/ en https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-consider-funding-proposals-trial-court-operations Judicial Council to Consider Funding Proposals for Trial Court OperationsCorren, Blaine Fri, 07/10/2026 - 16:33 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—The Judicial Council at its July 17 meeting will consider recommendations on how to allocate funding to the trial courts included in the most recent state budget signed by Gov. Newsom. The funding recommendations for fiscal year 2026–27 include how to allocate money for staffing, interpreters, court-appointed dependency counsel, continued implementation of the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act, and other costs associated with trial court operations. The recommendations use an established formula based on court workload to allocate the funding. Other Items on the Council Meeting Agenda: Budget Change Proposals: The council will consider submitting 24 budget change proposals to the California Department of Finance for consideration in the fiscal year 2027-28 budget, which include increased funding for new judgeships, court-appointed counsel, technology, interpreters, cybersecurity, and new courthouse construction and maintenance. Updated Plan for Court Construction: The council will consider the Judicial Branch Five-Year Infrastructure Plan and five capital-outlay budget change proposals for fiscal year 2027–28. The plan represents the funding needs for new courthouse construction, as well as renovations and additions to existing facilities. Upgrading Court Technology: The council will consider a proposal to allocate $12.5 million in grant funding to help courts expand their use of technology, including projects related to cybersecurity, technology infrastructure, case management systems, and e-filing. Legal Services for Low-Income Parties: The council will consider funding recommendations totaling $54 million over the next three years under the Sargent Shriver Civil Counsel Act to support projects providing legal representation and improved court services for low-income parties on critical legal issues affecting basic human needs. These projects address housing, domestic violence, civil harassment, probate conservatorships, guardianships, elder abuse, and child custody matters. Grants to Improve Jury Service: The council will consider a proposal to allocate $600,000 in grant funding to improve jury service management, including money for jury management systems upgrades, self-check-in kiosks, A/V equipment, and other tools that would increase efficiency and improve the experience of potential jurors called to serve. Grants to Expand Language Access: The council will consider a proposal to allocate $2.35 million in grant funding to expand language access for court users. Funding would be included for court projects related to interpreter equipment, translation of court website information, and multilingual kiosks and audio/visual systems. 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/chief-justice-calls-jury-service-cornerstone-american-judicial-system Chief Justice Calls Jury Service a Cornerstone of the American Judicial SystemCorren, Blaine Wed, 07/01/2026 - 16:01 News Release Outlined in the Declaration of Independence and later guaranteed as a right in the Constitution, jury service stands as one of the cornerstones of the American justice system. A new video featuring California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero welcomes individuals fulfilling their jury service and honors 250 years of jurors who have answered the call throughout our nation’s history. “Jury service is more than a civic duty—it is a privilege and a responsibility that ensures fairness and equality under the law,” says Chief Justice Guerrero. “When you serve as a juror, you uphold the promise that justice is not decided by government alone, but by the people.” The video is also available on the California Courts website at courts.ca.gov/courts/jury-service. Making the Jury System Better for JurorsIn addition to Juror Appreciation Week celebrated annually in May, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. Learn more about recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California. Additional Anniversary Video From California Supreme Court Justices In addition to the Chief Justice’s message about jury service, for this 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, the Chief Justice and associate justices of the California Supreme Court reflect more generally on the importance of justice and the rule of law as embodied in the United States and California constitutions. Learn more about the court’s recognition of the anniversary and see that video on the California Courts Newsroom. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-courts-make-language-used-jury-service-more-gender-inclusive California Courts to Make Language Used in Jury Service More Gender Inclusivenatalie.l.ston… Thu, 06/25/2026 - 12:23 Feature This summer, the California courts are updating language used in jury service materials to be more gender inclusive, like changing the phrase “his or her jury service” to “a person’s jury service.” The updates help minimize gender bias and create a more welcoming environment for transgender jurors, nonbinary jurors, or other jurors that may not identify with the traditional gender binary. Approximately 220,000 transgender and nonbinary adults live in California. Updates to Jury Service Standards, Rules, and Forms  Earlier this year, the Judicial Council’s Advisory Committee on Providing Access and Fairness made recommendations to improve gender inclusivity in jury materials. Following those recommendations, the council adopted a new standard of judicial administration (a guideline for the courts) and updated three rules of court, two juror forms, and sample scripts used in jury selection.  “Building a welcoming environment for every juror fosters public trust in the justice system,” says San Francisco County Judge Michael Rhoads, a council member and a member of the council's Advisory Committee on Providing Access and Fairness. “The Judicial Council’s important work ensures that our juries represent the people they serve.  When people from all backgrounds feel respected and empowered to participate, our courts and our communities are stronger.” The new standard of judicial administration provides the courts with ways to promote gender inclusivity, including:  Avoid assuming the gender of a juror who has not indicated the pronouns they use.   Avoid seeking information about the gender of jurors unless it is necessary or relevant.   If it is necessary or relevant, provide jurors with the option to indicate their gender identity or expression, allowing for multiple selections and a write-in option.  The council also made updates to specific phrases in rules for court proceedings. The phrases include using “a person’s jury service” instead of “his or her jury service,” “prospective juror” instead of “mother” for potential deferrals of jury service due to breastfeeding, and “the prospective juror” instead of “himself or herself” for potential deferrals of jury service due to financial burden.  Other updates to optional questionnaires for prospective jurors included removing a question asking about the sex of a juror’s children and changing referrals to a juror’s parents, spouse, or significant other to gender-neutral terms. Lastly, the council amended two existing standards of judicial administration, which provide scripts for judges to use during jury selection. The changes include expanding the list of characteristics that might be subject to bias and using gender-neutral terms to refer to judges, attorneys, or others in the courtroom. Education for Judges on Gender Inclusivity  In addition to updating its standards and rules, the council also revised several reference materials for judges about ensuring access for LGBTQ+ people. The updated materials cover subjects like using inclusive language and pronouns, considerations for LGBTQ+ youth, and general best practices for inclusion of LGBTQ+ people during court proceedings. Council and Courts Have Long Recognized the Importance of Language Gender-inclusive language not only serves transgender and nonbinary communities but historically has helped endorse the inclusion of women in legal, professional, and social spaces.  Many words in the English language are masculinized, such as freshman, manpower, policeman, or congressman. Over the years, some of these words have been updated, like police officer or congressperson, to reflect the presence and contributions of women and other people that don’t identify as male.  Recognizing the importance of this type of language, more than 30 years ago the council adopted new rules of court to help address this issue. The council updated jury instructions to include “she” and “her” pronouns to refer to jurors, attorneys, and litigants. This helped diminish the gender bias that only men were participating in the judicial process. In addition to updating jury instructions, the council approved 66 other recommendations from its Advisory Committee on Gender Bias in the Courts. Judicial Council Committed to Providing Access and Fairness The council’s Advisory Committee on Providing Access and Fairness makes recommendations for improving access to the judicial system, fairness in the state courts, diversity in the judicial branch, and court services for self-represented parties. Key projects of this advisory body are outlined in its annual agenda. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/california-courts-celebrate-jurors-0 California Courts Celebrate Jurorsnatalie.l.ston… Mon, 05/18/2026 - 11:47 Feature In 1998, the California Legislature designated the second full week in May as Juror Appreciation Week to honor the sacrifices and contributions of citizens who uphold the right of trial by jury and to raise awareness about their contribution to the court system. "During Jury Appreciation Week, we honor the unsung heroes of our justice system," said Orange County Presiding Judge Sheila F. Hanson. "This week is an important opportunity to reflect and recognize, with deep gratitude, the invaluable contributions that each juror has made to our judicial system. We express our gratitude for the pivotal role that jurors play in the democracy of our country--jury service is the bedrock of our justice system."  During Juror Appreciation Week, many courts make an extra effort to recognize those fulfilling their jury service. These are a few examples: Napa Superior Court is celebrating the entire month and providing cookies for all jurors at the beginning of each week in May. They’re also providing lunch one day per week for each sworn jury.  Orange Superior Court had court staff greet jurors with tokens of appreciation for their time, commitment, and support.  Placer Superior Court held a special event that brought together judicial officers, appellate justices, court staff, attorneys, and former jurors.  Sacramento Superior Court provided popcorn, water, and other goodies. Posters created by local high school students were displayed digitally.  San Bernardino Superior Court provided prospective jurors with certificates of appreciation, light refreshments, and word games.  San Francisco Superior Court acknowledged the work of the outgoing 2025-26 Civil Grand Jury with snacks, drinks, and goodies.  Santa Clara Superior Court encouraged the public to join in their celebration of jurors by writing handwritten notes, through social media messages, or by offering a simple expression of thanks.  Tulare Superior Court gave out swag bags to jurors, including pens, notepads, and pins with designs that thank jurors. Making the Jury System Better for Jurors In addition to Juror Appreciation Week, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. Learn more about recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/right-be-judged-your-peers-made-possible-jurors-0 Right to be Judged by Your Peers Made Possible by Jurors natalie.l.ston… Mon, 05/11/2026 - 10:50 Feature This year, the United States is celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Outlined in the Declaration of Independence and later guaranteed as a right in the Constitution, jury service stands as one of the cornerstones of the American judicial system.  "Jury service is more than a civic duty—it is a privilege and a responsibility that ensures fairness and equality under the law," says Chief Justice of California Patricia Guerrero. "When you serve as a juror, you uphold the promise that justice is not decided by government alone, but by the people." Juror Appreciation Week In 1998, the California Legislature designated the second full week in May to honor the contributions of citizens who devote their time and effort to "making the cherished right of trial by jury a reality and to raise awareness about their contributions to the courts." The Judicial Council of California and the state’s trial courts use Juror Appreciation Week to recognize the sacrifice people make in taking time away from their lives, families, and jobs to fulfill one of the most important duties in our democracy: serving as a juror in a court of law. Every year in California:  Over 10 million people are summoned for jury service, or 1 in 4 people statewide  More than 4.5 million people complete jury service, either in-person, on call, or on standby Approximately 100,000 people are sworn in as trial jurors  More than 70% of prospective jurors who arrive in person complete their service in one day  Making the Jury System Better for Jurors  In addition to Juror Appreciation Week, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. The following are some recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California: Gender Inclusive Language: The Judicial Council adopted a new standard of judicial administration to ensure gender inclusivity. Following the directive of Assembly Bill 1899, the new standard will use gender-neutral language in juror communications and materials, such as using the phrase "a person's jury service obligation" instead of "his or her jury service obligation."   Juror Mental Health and Wellness: The Judicial Council released a new webpage focusing on juror mental health and wellness. After jury service, some people may feel anxiety or increased stress. The webpage highlights symptoms that may arise, offers coping techniques, and offers additional resources to receive mental health support.    Jury Data Report: Every fiscal year, the Jury Data Report includes data from trial courts, used to improve jury operations statewide. Some of the metrics the report tracks are the number of people summoned for jury service, the most common reasons someone may be excused from jury service, and how many people complete jury service in one day.    Juror e-Payment Platform: Courts are now able to offer an electronic payment option for jurors to receive their per diem payment. A per diem payment is the daily compensation a person receives for jury service. For electronic payments, courts do not need to collect a juror's financial information and payments can be received in as soon as one day. Jurors only need a U.S. phone number to sign up.  Additional Improvements to Jury Service Over the Years These are a few more ways California courts have made the civic right and obligation of jury service more convenient for its citizens: One Day or One Trial Jury Service: If a person is not chosen for a jury panel after one day of service at a courthouse, their service is completed for at least one year. If a person is selected to serve on a jury, their service is completed for at least a year or longer after the trial is over.    Plain Language Jury Instructions: Civil and criminal jury instructions use plain language, or language that is understandable to jurors, to accurately explain the law.    Jury Portals: Courts continue to improve their online jury portals where individuals can check dates of service, request postponements and excusals, and sign up for reminders. Additional features include the ability to contact jury department staff with concerns, get information about court procedures, and obtain proof of jury service for employers. Additional Resources to Learn About Jury Service Jury Handbook  Information about how to respond to your juror summons  Guide to jury deliberations Guide to coping with jury service stress  Information for employers on the benefits of continuing to pay employees during their jury service  Learn more about jury service.  https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-approves-trial-court-funding-proposals Judicial Council Approves Trial Court Funding ProposalsCorren, Blaine Fri, 07/18/2025 - 13:40 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—The Judicial Council at its July 18 business meeting approved the allocation of funding to the courts provided in the fiscal year 2025-26 state budget, which includes money for court-appointed dependency counsel, continued implementation of the Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment (CARE) Act, and other costs associated with trial court operations. “I want to express my appreciation for the commitment of Governor Newsom and the Legislature for maintaining critical judicial branch programs and services we need,” said Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero. “This includes support for language access, treatment court programs, court-appointed counsel, and court facility improvements to ensure our courthouses are safe and secure.” Watch In addition, the council approved 16 budget change proposals to the California Department of Finance for consideration in the fiscal year 2026–27 budget, which include increased funding for costs associated with the Racial Justice Act, judicial security, language access, new courthouse construction and maintenance, and other judicial branch priorities. The proposals included an additional one raised during the meeting, but that wasn’t contained in the original council report. That added proposal seeks funding for an updated workload study of court-appointed counsel that represent children and parents in juvenile dependency proceedings. Judge Ann Moorman, chair of the council’s Budget Committee, presented the additional proposal, saying it will help determine updated caseload standards and the level of funding needed to support the court-appointed counsel program. “I believe this proposal aligns with our shared commitment to provide vital services to these children and families and ensure a strong court-appointed juvenile dependency system in California.” Watch Finally, the council updated its policy by which funding is allocated to the trial courts so it equitably accounts for potential changes to the judicial branch budget, such as budget reductions and restorations. Watch New Guidance for Courts That Use Generative Artificial Intelligence Tools The council approved proposals that address local court policies on the use of generative artificial intelligence for court-related work by judicial officers or court staff. The proposed new rule and standard focus on accuracy, supervision, and transparency when judicial officers or staff are using generative AI tools. They also address privacy, bias, and security risks posed by these tools. Courts that do not prohibit the use of generative AI would be required to adopt a use policy by December 15. Watch Funding to Continue Upgrading Court TechnologyThe council allocated grant funding to specifically help courts expand their use of technology. The funding will support projects related to cyber/information security, remote proceedings, data analytics, AI, and modernizing court technology infrastructure. The council also heard about success stories from courts that have received previous grant funding for technology projects. Court leaders described projects that converted paper documents to electronic court records, increased access to digital evidence for judges and litigants, and ensured disaster recovery during unexpected server outages. “The technology modernization funding allows each court to identify particular needs of their communities,” said Judge Kyle Brodie, chair of the council’s Technology Committee. “When awarding the program funding, we emphasize the need to use technology to improve access to our courts.” Watch Other Items on Council Meeting Agenda: Court Interpreter Use Study: The council received the latest Language Need and Interpreter Use Study, which details interpreter usage in trials courts for fiscal years 2020–21 through 2023–24 and predicts future language need. California courts recorded more than 2.5 million interpretations during the study period, which included remote and telephonic interpretations. Courts continue to prioritize funding for interpreter services, recruitment efforts, and remote services to help serve the approximately 6.4 million limited-English-proficient individuals in the state. Watch Updated Plan for Court Construction: The council approved the Judicial Branch Five-Year Infrastructure Plan and nine capital-outlay budget change proposals for fiscal year 2026–27. The plan represents the funding needs for new courthouse construction, as well as renovations and additions to existing facilities. Grants to Improve Jury Service: The council allocated grant funding to courts to improve the management of jury service. Funding priorities include self-check-in kiosks, electronic charging stations, and interactive voice and web services. Grants to Expand Language Access: The council allocated grant funding to expand language access for court users. Funding priorities include multilingual signage, audio/visual systems, kiosks, and websites. The complete meeting agenda and council reports are posted to the California Courts Meeting Information Center—an archived webcast of today’s meeting will be posted to the center as soon as it is available. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/right-be-judged-your-peers-made-possible-jurors Right to Be Judged by Your Peers Made Possible by JurorsCorren, Blaine Mon, 05/12/2025 - 16:05 Feature Every year in California: Roughly 10 million people are summoned for jury serviced, or 1 in 4 people statewide More than 4.5 million people complete jury service, either in-person, on call, or on standby Around 70% of prospective jurors who arrive in person complete their service in one day Nearly 100,000 people are sworn in as trial jurors   In 1998, the California Legislature designated the second full week in May to honor the contributions of citizens who devote their time and effort to "making the cherished right of trial by jury a reality and to raise awareness about their contribution to our courts." The Judicial Council of California and the state’s trial courts use Juror Appreciation Week to recognize the sacrifice people make in taking time away from their lives, families, and jobs to fulfill one of the most important duties in our democracy—serving as a juror in a court of law. Making the Jury System Better for JurorsIn addition to Juror Appreciation Week, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. Following are some recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California: Mileage Reimbursement Increase: New legislation allows jurors to claim the mileage reimbursement rate of $0.34 per mile for travel both to and from court, doubling the amount individuals can receive—the legislation also authorizes courts to partner with local public transit agencies for low-cost or no-cost roundtrip transportation during jury service.   Raising Juror Pay: A pilot program in seven superior courts to see if increases to juror pay improves juror diversity and participation, raised juror’s daily compensation from $15 per day to $100 per day, and increased the mileage reimbursement rate from $0.34 to $0.67 per mile roundtrip.   Using Zelle in Place of Paper Check: The Stanislaus Superior Court has been participating in a pilot project to test the feasibility of paying juror per dimes using an e-payment platform through Zelle— shortening the time for jurors to get paid at the conclusion of their service, as well as reducing administrative costs for the court.   On-Call Options for Jury Service: Courts continue to increase the use of telephone standby and on-call options for jury service—in many instances, individuals can check the night or even the week before to check if they will be asked to come to court in person.   Staggered Reporting Times: Courts now use staggered reporting times for jurors, such as 8:00am, 10:00am, 1:00pm, or 2:00pm—this system recognizes individual jurors' schedules and helps reduce the lines of people checking in for duty at once.   Jury Portals: Courts continue to improve their online jury portals where individuals can check dates of service, request postponements and excusals, and sign up for reminders—additional features include the ability to contact jury department staff with concerns, get information about court procedures, and obtain proof of jury service for employers.   New Juror Orientation Videos: Updated orientation videos shown to prospective jurors and available online, explain how the jury system works, what jurors can expect, and how implicit bias can affect the process—the videos have been downloaded more than 60,000 times and viewed in courts by more than 6,000,000 jurors. Additional Improvements to Jury Service Over the YearsFollowing are a few more ways California courts have made the civic right and obligation of jury service more convenient for its citizens: Model Juror Summons: All 58 superior courts in California reference the model summons to ensure their jury service summons is understandable.   One Day or One Trial Jury Service:  If not chosen for a jury panel after one day of service at the courthouse, a juror’s service is done for at least one year—if you are selected to serve on a jury, after the trial is over your service is also completed for at least a year or longer.   Plain Language Jury Instructions: Plain language civil and criminal jury instructions accurately convey the law using language that is understandable to jurors.   Additional Resources for Learning About Jury Service Jury Handbook Court and Community pamphlet on how to respond to your juror summons Guide to Jury Deliberations Jury Service Stress guide Information for Employers on benefits of continuing to pay employees during their jury service More information about jury service 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/california-courts-celebrate-jurors California Courts Celebrate JurorsCorren, Blaine Tue, 05/21/2024 - 17:47 Feature In 1998, the California Legislature designated the second full week in May as Juror Appreciation Week to honor the sacrifices and contributions of citizens who uphold the right of trial by jury and to raise awareness about their contribution to the court system. “The very existence of juries and jury trials provides all of us one of the basic guarantees of access to impartial justice spelled out in our Constitution, our right to a trial where one can be heard and judged by their peers,” said Orange County Presiding Judge Maria Hernandez. “We deeply appreciate the sacrifices and contributions jurors make to our justice system.” During Juror Appreciation Week, many courts make an extra effort to recognize those fulfilling their jury service, such as: Alameda Superior Court: Jurors meet judges who will discuss the functions of the justice system and personally thank all who fulfilled their civic duty Humboldt Superior Court: Additional snacks and food, as well as jury-themed games and activities Imperial Superior Court: Welcome banner, certificates of appreciation, and snacks Sacramento Superior Court: Tote bag with a reusable water bottle, hand sanitizer, and a certificate of appreciation San Bernardino Superior Court: Certificates of appreciation, snacks, drinks, and word games San Francisco Superior Court: Lunch, cookies, and goodie bag San Mateo Superior Court: Festive banners and decorations, snack baskets, and word search and crossword puzzles Santa Clara Superior Court: New text/email notification service to communicate with jurors serving on trials at the courthouse Tulare Superior Court: Buttons, snacks, and refreshments _________________________________________________________Making the Jury System Better for Jurors In addition to Juror Appreciation Week, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. See some recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/right-be-judged-your-peers-not-possible-without-jurors Right to Be Judged by Your Peers Not Possible Without JurorsCorren, Blaine Mon, 05/13/2024 - 12:39 Feature Every year in California: Nearly 12 million people are summoned for jury service, or 1 in 4 people statewide More than 4.5 million people complete jury service, either in-person, on call, or standby Approximately 98,000 are sworn in as trial jurors   In 1998, the California Legislature designated the second full week in May to honor the sacrifices and contributions of citizens who devote their time and effort to "making the cherished right of trial by jury a reality and to raise awareness about their contribution to our courts." Juror Appreciation Week is one way the Judicial Council of California and the state’s trial courts shine a spotlight on these citizens for helping to bolster democracy by ensuring the justice system guarantees that right for everyone. Making the Jury System Better for JurorsIn addition to Juror Appreciation Week, the California courts show their appreciation for jurors all year round. Following are some recent statewide initiatives to improve jury service in California: Increased Juror Pay: Starting on or after July 1, seven superior courts will implement a pilot program to see if increases to juror pay improves juror diversity and participation. In those courts, the juror fee will increase from $15 a day to $100 per day and the mileage reimbursement will increase from $0.34 to $0.67 per mile roundtrip.   Speeding up Juror Payments: Stanislaus Superior Court is part of a pilot project to test the feasibility of paying jurors via Zelle. More than 150 participants have used this option in lieu of receiving a paper check, shortening the time for jurors to get paid at the conclusion of their service, and reducing administrative costs for the court.   On-Call Options for Jury Service: Courts continue to increase the use of telephone standby and on-call options for jury service. In many instances, individuals can check the night or even the week before whether they will be asked to come to court in person.   Jury Portals: Courts continue to improve their online jury portals where individuals can check dates of service, request postponements and excusals, and sign up for reminders. Additional features include the ability to contact jury department staff with concerns, get information about court procedures, and obtain proof of service for employers.   Expanding Number of Source Lists for Calling Jurors: To increase the size and diversity of jury pools, courts now use three source lists, supplementing those from the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and local Registrar of Voters (ROV) with state tax filers newly obtained from the Franchise Tax Bureau (FTB). Additional Improvements to Jury Service Over the YearsFollowing are a few more ways California courts have made the civic right and obligation of jury service more convenient for its citizens: One Day or One Trial Jury Service: California has one-day or one-trial jury service. If not chosen for a jury panel after one day of service at the courthouse, a juror’s service is done for at least one year. If you are selected to serve on a jury, after the trial is over your service is also completed for at least a year and often longer. The majority of people who report for jury service serve for just one day.   Postponement Allowed: California courts allow summoned jurors to postpone jury duty at least once. Rule 2.1004 of the California Rules of Court states that if the request is made under penalty of perjury in writing and in accordance with the court's local procedure, the jury commissioner should not require the prospective juror to appear at court to make the request in person. Further postponements may be granted at the court's discretion.   Mileage Expenses Reimbursed: Jurors get reimbursed for mileage expenses both to and from court—and courts can partner with local public transit to provide low-cost or no-cost roundtrip transportation during jury service. Resources for Learning More About Jury Service Jury Handbook Court and Community pamphlet on how to respond to your juror summons Guide to Jury Deliberations Plain language jury instructions Jury Service Stress guide Better for Business pamphlet for employers on benefits of continuing to pay employees during their jury service More information about jury service