Guiding Principles

Meeting the needs of the public is the core function

• Decisions are based on the best interests of the public.
• Business is conducted with an underlying commitment to equal and timely justice and public access to an independent forum for the resolution of disputes.
• Ongoing civic education is provided to strengthen trust and confidence in the branch.

Protecting the independence of the branch is crucial in a democracy

• Decisions aim to strengthen the branch.
• Plan and advocate for policies, sufficient stable resources, and the infrastructure necessary for the branch to fulfill its mission.

High quality is an expectation throughout the branch

• Decisions facilitate improvement, effectiveness, and efficiency in the branch.
• Support a comprehensive judicial branch education and training program in order to maintain a competent, responsive, and ethical judiciary and staff.
• Establish broad and consistent policies for the operation of the courts as well as appropriate statewide rules of court and court forms.

Accountability is a duty of public service

• Establish long- and short-term plans that guide the judicial branch and provide quantitative data on progress.
• Evaluate branch performance to identify needed improvements.
• Continually monitor and evaluates the use of public funds.