https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/ en https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/courts-using-ai-and-cybersecurity-advances-improve-access-justice Courts Using AI and Cybersecurity Advances to Improve Access to JusticeMartin.Novitski Fri, 03/20/2026 - 12:40 Feature SAN FRANCISCO—A recent statewide technology summit convened hundreds of court professionals from around the state to talk about cybersecurity and how using artificial intelligence (AI) data can improve efficiency and benefit court users. The March 11 summit in San Francisco was the fifth of its kind hosted by the Judicial Council to bring courts together to share information and best practices on new technologies. How Advances in Artificial Intelligence Can Benefit Court Users Leaders from courts in San Diego, Orange, and Monterey counties led breakout sessions with topics ranging from understanding how AI can assist with translation and document workflows to discussions about maintaining guardrails to protect user data. In one breakout room, Judge Michael S. Groch from the San Diego Superior Court and Court Information Officer Brett Howard of the Orange Superior Court educated judicial officers and court executives on the use of AI. That session included an overview of Thomson Reuters CoCounsel, which can be used to improve judicial workflow, as well as demonstrated examples of what types of court work are safe to use with current generative AI technology. In her remarks to summit participants, California Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero acknowledged that AI can benefit court users. “Whatever new needs and opportunities will arise, I’m confident we will remain committed to innovation, to collaboration, and to aligning technology with our judicial branch goals,” she said, emphasizing the importance of collaboration throughout the constantly evolving landscape of technology. “And with all of you together, we will continue to shape the future for the courts, ensuring that technology serves as a bridge to justice.” Midnote speaker, Kevin Roose, Technology Columnist for The New York Times, invited attendees to look ahead as he highlighted the rapid acceleration of AI, noting that emerging tools are making “everyone a programmer.” He also considered what comes next after Artificial Generative Intelligence (AGI), including AI constitutions, defining intent for AI agents, and navigating a future with vast numbers of highly capable machine intelligences. Cybersecurity and the Courts A second set of breakout sessions focused on the growing need for cybersecurity enhancements in court operations. Speakers from Orange, Mono, and Riverside counties, as well as the Fifth Appellate District, emphasized preemptive measures and preparation as key factors in bolstering cybersecurity to protect court users. For example, Mono Superior Court Executive Officer Lester Perpall and Riverside Superior Court Deputy Chief of Information Technology Tim Cool spoke to fellow court staff about the importance of diligence and follow-through to improving cybersecurity in the courts. “Failures don’t happen because we don’t care,” Perpall warned. “Most failures happen because we confuse appearance with execution.” In addition, Adam Dodge, attorney and founder of EndTAB (End Technology-Enabled Abuse), served as the keynote speaker of the event. He warned that new technology is actively being used internationally to defraud others in real time. “We’re putting really powerful tools in the hands of people who could never access this level of sophistication before,” he stated as he demonstrated how AI deepfakes can be used to create increasingly realistic scams using technology that is evolving every day. Retired California Supreme Court Justice Recognizes Technology Pioneers Former California Supreme Court Justice Ming Chin presented the 2026 Justice Chin Technology Innovation Award to the Los Angeles Superior Court for its CourtHelp program, an AI-powered chatbot that helps web users navigate their court’s website. The award recognizes programs and projects that have increased access to justice through new technology. This is the second award of its kind, with the first one given to Alameda Superior Court at the 2023 Technology Summit. “It gives me great relief to find all of you still interested and progressing in the area of IT,” Justice Chin remarked as he closed the ceremony. “I encourage you to continue to do that, take it back to your courts, get more people involved and interested in IT.” Los Angeles Superior Court was honored with the Justice Ming Chin Technology Innovation Award for their CourtHelp program, a virtual assistant designed to help court users navigate the court’s website. (left to right) Matt Frederick, Technology Creative Director; Christopher Choi, Deputy Court Information Officer; Romulo Reyes, Deputy Court Information Officer; Raz Salehynia, Software Engineer Manager; Honorable Sergio C. Tapia II, Presiding Judge; Justice Ming W. Chin, Supreme Court Justice (ret.); David Slayton, Court Executive Officer/Clerk of Court; Mike Baliel, Court Information Officer; Jordan Aiken, Senior IT Manager- Infrastructure; and Luis Olachea, Deputy Court Information Officer. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/council-approves-funding-technology-projects-improve-services-public Council Approves Funding for Technology Projects to Improve Services for the PublicCorren, Blaine Fri, 02/20/2026 - 10:58 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—The Judicial Council at its Feb. 20 meeting approved funding for the Superior Court of Los Angeles County to continue hosting a shared solution that sends automated text message notifications—such as hearing reminders—to court users in nine participating courts. This technology funding is part of a state modernization grant program managed by the council that helps courts improve services to the public. “We know that every single court in our state needs additional technology funding—the applications far exceed the available funding,” said Judge Maria Hernandez, chair of the council’s Technology Committee. “We want you to understand the critical need in creating these opportunities and how our courts are able to expand access to justice through these technology initiatives.” The council also heard about how other California courts use the funding to improve operations and expand access: Digitizing Documents: Reduces printing and storage costs, improves data security, and enhances efficiency through e-filing, faster case processing, and streamlined public access requests   Audio/Video Upgrades: Enhances remote participation in court proceedings through audio and video upgrades, and provides technologies for website chatbots and virtual assistants that allow staff to assist the public via live video and secure document sharing   Cyber/Information Security: Protects case files, evidence, and confidential information, as well as preventing disruptions to court operations and proceedings Watch archived webcast of this portion of the meeting Other Items on Council Meeting Agenda: Report Shows Strong Support for Remote Court Proceedings: The council received a report showing that litigants and court staff who took part in remote appearances in civil and criminal proceedings had an overwhelmingly positive experience. Based on user responses between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025, approximately 90% of court users and 98% of court staff reported a positive experience. The council also heard firsthand from San Diego County Judge Lisa Rodriguez, Dependency Legal Services Policy Director/Lead Attorney Julia Hanagan, and other council members on their experiences with remote proceedings and the benefits this option provides court users and staff. Watch archived webcast of this portion of the meeting Presentation From the Department of Finance: The council received an update from the California Department of Finance (DOF) on the state's current fiscal situation and how the judicial branch budget is developed. The DOF discussed how personal income taxes, capital gains, and changes to federal funding causes volatility in the state’s revenues. Due to these variables, the DOF puts a priority on long-term fiscal resilience and adequate reserves. Despite improving economic signals and revenues, the DOF predicts a modest budget shortfall for the next budget cycle due to previous deficits and ongoing debt obligations. Watch archived webcast of this portion of the meeting Education for Judges and Court Staff: The council approved its next two-year education plan for developing and delivering education to justices, judges, and court staff to help them maintain high standards of professionalism, ethics, and performance for the benefit of the public. The plan includes on-demand videos, online courses, webinars, podcasts, and publications, as well as live interactive programs and courses offered both in person and remotely. Presenters included information and examples of resources in the areas of environmental law, domestic violence, and new judge education. Watch archived webcast of this portion of the meeting Judicial Council Member to Retire: With more 30 years of trial court experience, Darrel Parker, court executive officer for the Superior Court of Santa Barbara County, will retire effective Feb. 27. Parker served as an advisory member of the council as chair of its Court Executives Advisory Committee. He has also served on many other council advisory bodies and curriculum committees during his judicial branch career. Judicial Council of California 100th Anniversary Video: The conclusion of the business meeting featured a preview of a video produced to highlight the council’s creation in 1926 and its role in improving the statewide administration of justice. Once finalized, the council will post the video to its 100th anniversary website, which also features bios of previous Chief Justices and council administrative directors, as well as a timeline of actions taken or supported by the council that helped transform the court user-experience in California over the last 100 years. Watch archived webcast of this portion of the meeting 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/save-trip-courthouse-contest-your-traffic-ticket-online Save a Trip to the Courthouse: Contest Your Traffic Ticket OnlineCorren, Blaine Mon, 02/09/2026 - 17:00 Feature Thousands of Californians get traffic tickets every year. To contest the ticket, drivers traditionally appear before a judicial officer or submit their case in writing by mail. A new online tool expanding around the state offers a more convenient alternative, saving drivers both time and expense. Contesting Traffic Tickets Online—How it WorksThe California courts’ Online Trial By Declaration (OTBD) module on the MyCitations website allows defendants to contest eligible traffic citations by submitting a written statement and uploading evidence. After the court is notified that the defendant has chosen to challenge the ticket through OTBD, the issuing officer submits a response for the judicial officer to consider. Parties are notified by email once the judge makes a decision. Contesting a ticket by OTBD or by mail waives the right to an in-person trial before a judge. Saving Californians Time and ExpenseThe tool for contesting traffic tickets is currently available in six counties: Amador, Imperial, Nevada, Sacramento, San Francisco, and Siskiyou. Early-adopter courts report the online tool works efficiently and provides a popular option for ticket holders. “Attending court for an in-person trial on an infraction citation often carries with it a variety of expenses and inconveniences, particularly for those who must travel to court from out of county,” said Nevada County Judge Alissa Bjerkhoel, who adjudicates online trial by declarations. Nevada Court Executive Officer Laila Waheed agreed. “Providing the public with accessible, streamlined solutions to resolve their citations with the court is an important benefit to our community.” The superior courts in Nevada and San Francisco Counties were the first in California to offer the online tool. “This online option is another way the court is making it easier and less expensive for people to conduct court business without having to pay for parking, childcare, and travel to a courthouse,” said San Francisco Court Executive Officer Brandon E. Riley.  Getting the Word OutThe amount of ticket holders using the OTBD option has steadily increased. Courts promote the tool through: Amador Superior Court placed posters and flyers about the Online Trial by Declaration option for traffic tickets at its clerk's office/public counter and other areas of its courthouse. News releases Social media posts Court websites Postings/posters at the courthouse Phone and live chat assistance “We’ve added the link to our website and courtesy notices,” said Katja Morgan, the Court Operations Manager for the Criminal/Traffic Division at the Siskiyou Superior Court. “And all our court clerks advise litigants of the options for the ability to pay and the online trial by declaration options.” Expanding Online Trial by Declaration (OTBD) ToolFrom its launch in two superior courts in December 2024, and its expansion into four more courts since then, roughly 1,600 litigants made OTBD requests statewide through the end of 2025. The Sacramento Superior Court is one of the latest courts to launch the service, going live with the online traffic tool last December. “The implementation of Online Trial by Declaration reflects our commitment to expanding convenient, accessible court services,” said Brenda Allen, Director of Operations at the court’s Carol Miller Justice Center, where traffic cases are processed. “By allowing eligible traffic cases to be contested online and on a schedule that works for the public, we are reducing barriers to participation.” Two additional superior courts plan to go live by April, and up to five more courts will begin onboarding activities before the end of 2026. MyCitations SiteAvailable statewide, the California Courts MyCitations tool allows defendants with financial hardships to look up their citation, answer a series of simple questions, and submit fine reduction requests, set up payment plans, or apply for community service. In select courts, users can contest eligible traffic citations online--in addition to in person--by submitting a written statement and uploading evidence through an option on the MyCitations site. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/courts-continue-modernizing-services-public Courts Continue Modernizing Services for the PublicCorren, Blaine Wed, 07/23/2025 - 08:17 Feature California appellate courts digitized their operations, saving off-site storage costs and increasing public access to records.   In Sutter County, the court created a back-up server system in the cloud that helped it restart its computer system in minutes after an outage, ensuring continuing services to the public.   In Los Angeles County, the court created a tool that allows litigants, attorneys, and court staff to view and share small claims evidence. These are just three examples highlighted during a presentation at the July 18 Judicial Council business meeting, where court leaders shared how California courts use money in the state budget dedicated to court technology to improve their internal operations and services for court users. Courts of Appeal Digitize Court RecordsThe Courts of Appeal in California had a problem: too many paper documents that were costly to store, difficult to access, and at risk of damage or loss. Money available from the branchwide Information Technology Modernization (IT Mod) Funding Grant program enabled the courts to scan 16,555,487 documents, eliminate 6,389 bankers boxes filled with papers, and save $20,111 annually in off-site storage. The project also eliminated the need for court staff to physically retrieve and photocopy records, and increased the public’s access to the records online.  “The public benefit of digitizing records and provides immediate electronic access to records is tremendous and enhances service to both court staff and to the public,” said Charles Johnson, Clerk/Executive Officer, Court of Appeal, First Appellate District. “It created significant operational efficiency, as we can pull up documents in seconds and send it to the member of the public if requested.” Back-up Servers in the CloudThe Superior Court of Sutter County had a problem: it had no contingency plan if its computer servers went down unexpectedly. The Sutter court’s IT Mod grant enabled it to create a back-up server system in the cloud in case of emergency. Fortunately, the court finished the project before last year’s CrowdStrike outage. A faulty update caused widespread problems with Microsoft Windows computers running Crowdstrike’s security software. Millions of systems crashed and were unable to properly restart in what has been called the largest outage in the history of information technology. But with its new cloud-based backup system, the Sutter court recovered its server systems within minutes, ensuring business as usual at the court by 9:00 a.m. “These are situations you hope never occur, but being prepared is critical to business operations,” said AJ Guzman, Chief Information Officer, Superior Court of Sutter County. “Our disaster recovery solution ensured timely access to justice, which is important for building and maintaining public trust and confidence in our court systems.” View and Share Small Claims EvidenceThe Superior Court of Los Angeles County had a problem: an inefficient, costly, and manual process for documents in small claims cases. IT Mod funding enabled the court to upgrade its system for handling evidence in small claims cases, which can now be uploaded, shared, and viewed online. “Now all small claims participants—litigants, attorneys, and court staff—can interact with the evidence electronically,” said Assistant Presiding Judge Ricardo R. Ocampo, Superior Court of Los Angeles County. Funding for Upgrading Court Technology to ContinueAt that July business meeting, the council also approved the next allocation of grant funding from the IT Mod program for fiscal year 2025-26. This year’s priorities include court projects related to cyber/information security, remote proceedings, data analytics, AI, and modernizing court technology infrastructure. “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, during the council meeting. “When awarding the program funding, we emphasize the need to use technology to improve access to our courts.” History of the Court Technology Grant ProgramThe state Budget Act of 2020 and 2021 each appropriated $25 million for the modernization of California’s trial courts through the Court Technology Modernization Funding Grant program. On July 24, 2020, the Judicial Council directed its Technology Committee to make recommendations for allocating this funding for local court projects. The Technology Committee established program requirements, a court application request process, and a method for evaluating the projects, identifying branch technology priorities, and making funding recommendations. Based on the success of these projects, the Budget Act of 2022 approved ongoing funding to continue modernizing California’s judicial branch through technology. To reflect the ongoing appropriation, the program name changed to the Information Technology Modernization (IT Mod) Funding Grant. Most recent council report on the technology grant program Watch technology projects update presented at July 18 council business meeting 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/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/chief-justice-creates-task-force-use-generative-ai-california-courts Chief Justice Creates Task Force on Use of Generative AI in the California CourtsCorren, Blaine Fri, 05/17/2024 - 14:18 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero today 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. “Generative AI brings great promise, but our guiding principle should be safeguarding the integrity of the judicial process,” said Chief Justice Guerrero. “That means it will be essential for the branch to assess what protections are necessary as we begin to use this technology.” Members of the task force will include Administrative Presiding Justice Brad Hill (chair), Justice Carin Fujisaki, Judge Kyle Brodie, Administrative Presiding Justice Mary Greenwood, Judge Arturo Castro, and council members David Yamasaki and Gretchen Nelson. Earlier this year, Chief Justice Guerrero asked Justice Greenwood and Judge Castro to help identify the foundational questions the California court system must consider regarding the appropriate uses of AI. In response to their report and recommendations presented today, 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 AI Issues to Be Considered During their presentation to the council, Justice Greenwood and Judge Castro recommended the judicial branch should use generative AI, but with limitations and safeguards, as avoiding this easily accessible technology may deprive the branch of significant benefits. They identified some potential uses of AI, which include improving court administration and management, and enhancing research and analysis. “Generative AI could also increase access to justice for the public,” said Judge Castro. “I think about the potential for AI to help walk self-represented litigants through the process, forms, and procedures they will encounter at the courthouse.” In addition to the potential benefits of AI, the presenters emphasized the need for litigants to interact with the court and its judicial officers to feel that they’ve been heard. “It’s important to note that generative AI is only a tool,” said Justice Greenwood. “It’s not an end, and it’s not a substitute for judicial decision making and due process.” Watch Other Items on the Council Meeting Agenda: Presiding Remotely in Civil Cases: The council approved a new rule of court on when a judicial officer may preside remotely over a civil proceeding from a location other than a courtroom. With approval from the presiding judge, the rule allows for presiding remotely in limited circumstances when doing so is in the interest of justice, such as when safety is an issue, no courtrooms are available, or to prevent a significant delay that would substantially prejudice the litigants. Watch Changes to CARE Act Rules and Forms: The council approved revisions to rules of court and forms related to the sealing of records, communications between the CARE Act court and the juvenile court, notification of respondent’s attorney in certain parallel or related legal proceedings, and limits on authorized communication. Report on Pretrial Programs: The council received a report on court programs and practices that promote the safe, efficient, fair, and timely pretrial release of individuals booked into jail. Data collected from the pretrial program showed pretrial release rates increased for both felonies and misdemeanors while rearrest/rebooking rates decreased. Increasing Numbers of Court Interpreters: The council approved a proposal on how to allocate money provided in the 2023-24 state budget for a five-year pilot program to increase the number of court interpreter employees. Funding will go toward reimbursing potential interpreters for costs associated with their training, coursework, and examination fees. Trial Court Financial Policies and Procedures Manual: The council approved updates to the Trial Court Financial Policies and Procedures Manual, which provides a system of fundamental internal controls that helps trial courts monitor their use of public funds, provide consistent and comparable financial statements, and demonstrate accountability. Watch Appointment to Board of State and Community Corrections: The council approved the reappointment of Judge Janet Gaard (ret.) to the Board of State and Community Corrections, an independent statutory agency that provides leadership to the adult and juvenile criminal justice systems and expertise on public safety realignment issues. 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/online-tool-request-reductions-traffic-tickets-continues-expand-throughout-california Online Tool to Request Reductions to Traffic Tickets Continues to Expand Throughout CaliforniaCorren, Blaine Thu, 03/21/2024 - 14:33 Feature Just a few years ago, asking for a reduction in the amount of a traffic ticket meant filing a request in person at the courthouse or even appearing before a judge. But a new online tool offered by a growing number of California courts is not only saving litigants a trip to the courthouse, it’s saving them money. How the MyCitations Tool Works MyCitations is an online tool that 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. Image Program Continues to Expand, Reaching More Low-Income UserA recent report to the Legislature analyzed the program since its launch in April 2019 through December 2023. The report found that due to the program’s expansion and because more litigants are learning about the program, nearly half (61,351) of the total (128,151) requests made since it launched in 2019 were made in 2023. In 2023 alone: More than 47,000 litigants submitted approximately 61,000 ability-to-pay requests Courts granted more than $16 million in fine reductions Nearly 50% of litigants who used the tool reported they receive public benefits and nearly 90% reported incomes at or below 250% the poverty line As of March 1, 2024, more than 100,000 litigants have submitted more than 142,000 requests, resulting in more than $38.6 million in reductions since 2019. Report Finds Reducing Fines and Fees Benefits Both Litigants and Courts That latest report to the Legislature was consistent with earlier evaluations of the MyCitations tool, also finding that litigants are more likely to repay the full amount of fines and fees as the amount ordered to pay decreases. Image Comparing the repayment rates among 40,801 cases studied demonstrates that more defendants fully repay their court debt as the amount ordered to pay decreases. The rate of repayment ranges from around 70% for cases where defendants are ordered to pay up to $100 to below 20% when the ordered amount exceeds $500. Next Steps and Future MyCitations FeaturesCurrently, 43 superior courts in California’s 58 counties offer the MyCitations online tool. The 15 remaining superior courts expect to start using the tool by July 2024. In addition, all California tickets now have information about the MyCitations tool and how to access it. And adding to the 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. This online trial module will be piloted in San Francisco County by summer of 2024. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/automated-tool-gives-judges-quick-comprehensive-data-making-pretrial-release-decisions-jailed Automated Tool Gives Judges Quick, Comprehensive Data for Making Pretrial Release Decisions for Jailed Individuals Awaiting TrialCorren, Blaine Wed, 05/17/2023 - 13:19 Feature Court pretrial programs provide judges with the necessary information to decide whether to release individuals booked into jail but still awaiting trial. These programs aim to protect the public, ensure defendants will appear for court proceedings, and establish appropriate monitoring conditions if defendants are released. With help from state budget funding dedicated to establishing and improving court pretrial programs, the Superior Court of Alameda County created an automated system that collects data from multiple sources to populate the risk assessment and pretrial report. The result is a more comprehensive report that considers criminal history, convictions, and failures to appear without requiring manual data entry or personal interviews.  The system enables the court to immediately produce the pretrial reports when an individual is booked on new charges or an arrest warrant. Individuals eligible for pre-arraignment release can have their case reviewed by a judicial officer within 12 hours of booking and be released from custody within 24 hours if a release order is issued. The online tools also give judicial officers 24/7 access to pretrial release requests, including weekends. Image The Superior Court of Alameda County provided an overview of its pretrial program to attendees at the statewide technology summit in Sacramento. “The online system allows qualifying individuals to be released pre-arraignment, reduces the amount of time they are in custody, and supports judicial officers in making data-driven release decisions,” said Alameda County Judge Tara Desautels. Statewide Technology Summit Showcases Solutions to Court ChallengesA recent statewide court technology summit hosted by the Judicial Council included recognition of the Alameda court’s automated pretrial program. The Apr. 26 summit gathered more than 250 California court leaders and staff focused on how the judicial branch can use technology to improve operations and services for court users. In addition to recognizing Alameda’s pretrial program, the summit featured sessions and exhibits on information security, remote interpretation resources, voice-to-text translation, hybrid (in-person/remote) courtrooms, online trial-by-declaration programs, and other online tools and services. Image Summit attendees from the council and more than 40 courts around the state had the opportunity to share ideas and solutions for improving court operations through technology. "The summit was a valuable way to bring the court technology community together to share ideas and learn from each other," said Kyle Brodie, chair of the council's Technology Committee. "That really is one of the big secrets to our success as a judicial branch." Statewide Strategic Plan for Technology Earlier this year, the Judicial Council approved an update to the judicial branch’s Strategic Plan for Technology. The plan outlines how the branch can adapt and use technology to improve court operations and provide better service to litigants, attorneys, justice partners, and the public. The updated plan also includes a new goal of promoting digital court services that are accessible to all, regardless of location, socioeconomic status, language, physical ability, or technological access or experience. https://newsroom.courts.ca.gov/news/judicial-council-approves-funding-continue-modernizing-court-operations-and-services Judicial Council Approves Funding to Continue Modernizing Court Operations and ServicesCorren, Blaine Tue, 09/20/2022 - 14:12 News Release SAN FRANCISCO—The council at its Sept. 20 meeting distributed $12.5 million from this year’s state budget to continue modernizing trial court operations, improving online and remote services, and increasing access to justice for the public. “We’ve demonstrated that the judicial branch can make great use of technology funding,” said Judge Kyle Brodie, who helped present the technology funding proposal as chair of the council’s Technology Committee. “Our projects have dramatically increased the level of service to the public.” Ongoing state funding for court technology has expanded voice-to-text translation in clerks and self-help offices, electronic filing, hearing reminders, access to court records, and other technology services. For example, the council heard about: The Virtual Customer Service Center pilot on the judicial branch’s online self-help portal, which has processed 65,000 chatbot questions from 46,000 visitors about small claims, name changes, and family law since March 2021, and has also served 4,200 live chat users—the service will soon be available on local court websites and be expanded to handle eviction, traffic, and fee waiver questions.   The Placer Superior Court pilot of the branch’s Hearing Reminder Service, which sent out nearly 20,000 reminders so far—by this fall, 8 trial courts will be using the service, which provides an option for reminders in Spanish, with 4 more languages coming soon   The branch’s eCART software, which automates the process of compiling a clerk’s transcript and produces an electronic record that can be securely transmitted to the appellate court—used in 31 trial courts so far, the software helps simplify a normally complex and time-intensive process “Collaboration between the council and the courts is delivering solutions to the branch, understanding that we are better together than separate,” said Heather Pettit, director of the council’s Information Technology office. “That is something we have modeled over the last several years.” Watch Other items on the September 20 council meeting agenda included: Funding to Backfill Loss of Fee Revenue: The council allocated $10.3 million from this year’s state budget to backfill the loss of fee revenue to trial courts due to the repeal of civil assessment fees authorized by Assembly Bill 177. Watch Update on State Budget from Department of Finance: The council received a briefing from Somjita Mitra, chief economist with the California Department of Finance, on the state of California’s economy and the outlook for the state’s finances in the future. She noted the state’s low unemployment rate, quick job recovery, and expected decrease in inflation bode well for staving off a possible recession. But Mitra also reported that the rising average age of the state’s residents, declining birth rate, and disappearing middle class could hinder economic growth. In addition, a recent decline in tax collections could necessitate the need to dip into the state’s $33 billion rainy day fund going forward. Watch Council’s Administrative Director Receives Chief Justice Award: Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye presented Administrative Director of the Judicial Council Martin Hoshino with the Award for Exemplary Service and Leadership, which honors an individual or organization for outstanding service to the judicial branch. Hoshino is only the seventh recipient of the award during Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye’s tenure. The complete meeting agenda and council reports are posted to the California Courts Meeting Information Center. An archived webcast of the entire meeting broken out by topic will be added to the center as soon as it is available.