The Docket - October 2023 | Page 7

of the rule . Namely , addressing whether or not a proposed change to the circuits would increase or decrease the judicial system ’ s effectiveness , efficiency , professionalism , and public trust and confidence .
Those who attended the August 25th meeting pointed out that circuits have forged important relationships with key stakeholders within individual circuits and have developed best practices to address those circuit ’ s specific needs . They argued that disrupting those existing structures , which are operating effectively and efficiently , would erode the public trust and confidence in the legal system and would adversely impact those critical relationships .
Other concerns related to the potential magnification of the disparity in available technology among circuits , which is not uniform among rural and urban districts , and the concern that citizens would feel disenfranchised from the legal system as courts become more geographically distant from the residents they are intended to serve .
Others expressed concerns that their circuit ’ s relationship with the local voluntary bar association , which is based upon tradition of collaboration and camaraderie , would also be negatively impacted by consolidation .
Overall , the consensus has been that while there may be some adjustments warranted to increase efficiency , the consolidations of circuits is not the answer .
If you are interested in attending an upcoming public meeting or providing feedback to the committee , GO HERE for more information . I encourage all of you to share your input with the committee as this is an issue that undoubtedly could impact our circuit as well as how we practice law . �

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THE DOCKET - OCTOBER 2023 | 7