Courts: System will probably need more layoffs to meet budget

During bad economic times, crime goes up. So do lawsuits over money, foreclosures and other court actions involving economics. But the state courts system will likely be asked to do more with less.

An additional $9 million in cuts are being asked of the courts, although one-time money may help cut that amount in half next year. Programs have been cut; a hiring freeze is in place, and court reporters are being let go. An additional 22 employees might also be laid off, said state courts spokeswoman Nancy Volmer.

"We're probably going to have to look at some of the existing facilities and see about consolidating staff," she said.

The wheels of justice keep on churning, and Utah Attorney General Mark Shurtleff's office fears that any more cuts means layoffs and an increasing caseload for those left behind.

To make do, spokesman Paul Murphy said the attorney general's office has a hiring freeze and will likely not replace any attorneys who leave. The office was already ordered to make nearly $3 million in cuts during the special session.

— Ben Winslow