Judiciary moves forward in face of challenges, Durham says

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah Supreme Court Chief Justice Christine Durham stood before a joint session of the House and Senate Monday to tell them that even the justices of the state's high court are not impervious to challenges, especially as of late.

The budget issues that have plagued the nation, at every level, have not been avoided by the state judiciary system, but its been taking great strides, Durham said, to see the challenges as an opportunity to innovate.

In her state of the judiciary address, she highlighted the successes of the courts system while addressing its greatest concerns. And though Durham understands patience will be necessary, she also told lawmakers that the court's "priorities do not change."

"We must protect access to justice and fairness in the courts while dealing with budget realities," she said.

"As the impact of the recession is felt at every level, it is important to remember the human dimensions of access and fairness," Durham said, calling the state courts the "emergency room for society."

Durham said the courts system is "on the cutting edge" in its use of technology, as it has moved almost entirely from transcripts of court hearings to digital recordings, which not only cuts the cost, but also the time needed to produce the transcripts from an average of 138 days to 16 days.

Utah's state courts are also receiving national attention for efforts in moving toward electronic payments and filings, she said.

The court has also expanded its services for those who seek to represent themselves by providing a telephone help-line that is staffed by attorneys and is now available to more than half of the state.

Durham praised the efforts of those who have worked to keep the system moving in light of the loss of 65 jobs, which comprised 6 percent of the court's work force, and the justices who have picked up the slack in the face of nine "extended vacancies" left open in the face of the limited resources. That's all happened while case filings have increased by 15 percent, she said.

"I am proud not only of the sacrifice and commitment of our staff and our judges, but also the recognition of our effectiveness by our peers around the country. We are, in the face of serious challenges, doing good work."

But the necessity of adjustment, Durham said, has fostered innovation and will make the courts system better.

"I remain confident, however, that we will emerge from the challenges, soon I hope, as do all of you, with a better, more streamlined, more efficient and more effective judicial system."