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At its public meeting on December 16 in Sacramento, the Judicial Council approved changes to the California Rules of Court to standardize and improve court procedures―and notice of those procedures―to defendants in infraction cases.

In the wake of wildfires that devastated parts of California’s Wine Country last October, nearly 100 civil lawsuits were filed against Pacific Gas and Electric Co. alleging the utility had a role in sparking the blaze. The answer to this influx was civil case coordination.

Delayed by COVID-19 for nearly three months in most parts of the state, jury trials are resuming in counties large and small.

How the judicial branch kept courthouses open during a year of unprecedented challenges.

Council will also receive reports on the branch’s ability-to-pay program, self-help centers, and voice-to-text language services

Council also approves expansion of an online pilot program enabling low-income litigants to request reductions in traffic infraction fines and fees remotely

Funding used for remote video, online services, and expanding self-help also helped limit the service impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on court users

Funding for remote video, online services, and other technology projects improves services and helps limit the impact of pandemic on court users

Will also hear recommendations for the Chief Justice on next steps for the judicial branch

Work must focus on preserving public trust and confidence in the judicial process, along with accountability, transparency, and privacy for the public

The judicial branch of California continued to prioritize and expand access to justice for court users and the public