Report Finds One Hudson Valley Family Court in Need of Improvements

If you've ever had to go to court about child custody or visitation rights, guardianship, custodial arrangements, domestic violence, child abuse or neglect, or any other issues that involve children, chances are you found yourself in family court and, chances are, it wasn't the easiest of experiences.

While the attorneys, staff, and judges work to provide the best for each child and family, it isn't always the easiest place to be and, at times, it can be very scary and slow-moving. According to a recent report by The Fund for Modern Courts, family courts are often under-resourced and have some of the highest case loads throughout the state court system.

To try and help with this, family courts have been monitored by various organizations since 1975, to provide information to help the courts work more efficiently and effectively.

According to the most recent report by The Fund for Modern Courts, the Dutchess County Family Court was monitored in 2014 and 2015, with help from the American Association of University Women, Poughkeepise, Inc; the NY Branch Court Watch Initiative; and the League of Women Voters. After acknowledging many good practices at the court, there were some recommendations made to improve the court for those it serves.

According to the Citizen Court Monitoring Report on the Dutchess County Family Court, these recommendations addressed issues such as firearms in connection with domestic violence as well as public policy; clearly explaining the issue at hand before beginning the court proceedings; providing better explanations about Order of Protections and providing Bi-Lingual Orders of Protection; have interpretation and translation services available for those using the court; increase access to written information on court proceedings; have more upfront assistance available-especially with the required paperwork; and improve courtroom scheduling and decorum.

While these changes won't be in place overnight, it's good to know that there are agencies looking to help the courts better serve not only those who work diligently every day in them but also our communities.