Chief’s remarks focus on vulnerable Nebraskans

Chief Justice Michael Heavican of the Nebraska Supreme Court delivered his State of the Judiciary address to the Legislature Jan. 19.

Heavican’s address focused on the judiciary’s advancements in serving the state’s children and elderly.

Through a statewide working group, the courts have cooperated with the Legislature and executive branch officials to improve service delivery in child welfare cases and in juvenile and county courts, Heavican said.

In addition, the state has addressed truancy by focusing on local-level solutions prior to formal court involvement, he said.

“By focusing our efforts on prevention and on diversion of truants before they enter the court system, all parties benefit,” Heavican said. “The courts’ resources should be reserved for the most difficult truancy cases.”

Nebraska also has been recognized as a national leader in protection of vulnerable adults, he said.

By improving laws regarding guardianships and conservatorships, as well as increased training of court staff and financial institutions, Nebraska has strengthened protection for the state’s vulnerable elderly population, he said.

Heavican noted the importance of technology in improving access and efficiency in the state’s judicial system. Through partnership with Nebraska.gov, he said, the courts are able to process online payment of court fines and costs including civil judgments, criminal fines and restitution.

The judicial branch also is making progress in electronic case filing and 24-hour viewing, he said.

“We are now one of only a few court systems in the nation that have a statewide comprehensive case management system,” he said.

Heavican said the courts’ use of technology enhances its ability to provide access to justice for Nebraska citizens.

“We continue to be committed to cooperation, to making the judicial branch and its services accessible and affordable and to being held accountable,” he said.