In a notice issued on March 6, 2013 to attorneys, the Los Angeles Superior Court announced that due to state-imposed budget cuts, the LASC will cease providing Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) services for civil, family and probate courts via a planned timetable. The schedule includes closure of ADR offices in eight (8) courthouses during the month of April and another seven (7) in the month of May.
Access to the civil jury system in this country continues to face many challenges in almost every state. Our friends and clients in Los Angeles County are dealing with unprecedented changes in the court system as a result of budgetary cuts and the massive consolidation of their court system. It was difficult enough for injured citizens to wait out the long dockets for their day in court. Soon, even the ADR system will be unavailable.
To view the entire list of changes imposed by the court consolidation, click here. It appears southern California citizens will now wait even longer for justice.
Donna A. Jones
Senior Vice President
Photo Credit: unclebumpy via Flickr