Judges Feel The Pinch As Budget Cuts Put The Squeeze On Florida Judiciary

In Manatee, Florida, the Bradenton Herald reports:

• Florida State Supreme Court Chief Justice Peggy Quince told an audience of local attorneys Friday that the judicial system is a branch of government, not an agency, as the Legislature treats it during budget time. “The most critical issue facing the judicial branch is funding,” Quince told the more than 200 members of the [local] bar associations attending the annual Bench-Bar Conference at the Manatee County Judicial Center.

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• Last year about 280 positions were eliminated statewide to meet the judicial branch’s budget goals. This year 240-250 more people may have to be laid off to reach Gov. Charlie Crist’s request, she said. Without these non-judge position, judges will not be able to hear as many cases.

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• She said because of the economic downturn, this is the wrong time to cut court budgets. "During these hard times domestic violence incidents and economic crimes increase,” Quince said. “Also, the foreclosure rate is going up.

For more, see Chief justice asks lawyers to call about budget cuts.