Woodrow Kerce

This document is a study prepared for the Florida Supreme Court and The Florida Bar's Standing Committee on Pro Bono Legal Service. It explores the reasons behind the stagnation of pro bono legal services in Florida, particularly the decline in participation through organized programs. The study offers recommendations to increase voluntary pro bono legal services to meet the legal needs of Florida's poor, emphasizing the integration of passion and strategic action within the legal community.

The Legal Technology Analysis Report and Three Year Implementation Plan for the Florida Supreme Court focuses on upgrading and implementing technology within the administration of the Supreme Court, District Courts of Appeal, and the Office of the State Courts Administrator. Key areas of focus include computer hardware and software upgrades, improving operational efficiency, addressing communication barriers between the Court System and Information Systems & Services (ISS), and enhancing end-user support and training. The plan aims to transition the Court System into new technology by addressing both technical and human factor needs, with recommendations for software, hardware, local and wide area networks, training, help desk functions, and staffing.

The Florida Supreme Court held oral arguments regarding proposed amendments to rule 5-1.1(g) of the Rules Regulating The Florida Bar, concerning the distribution of IOTA funds to increase civil legal services for low-income Floridians. The court also heard arguments in a case involving Roy P. Boston, who was convicted of misdemeanor battery and claimed self-defense, focusing on the application of Florida’s Stand Your Ground immunity law.

The plan focuses on strengthening public trust and confidence in the Florida court system through enhanced communication strategies. It prioritizes building meaningful relationships with key audiences, increasing public awareness of court programs and services, and ensuring consistent and purposeful communication. The plan also aims to improve internal communication within the judicial branch to foster employee engagement and a positive work environment.

The strategic plan for the Florida Judicial Branch is designed to guide the branch in advancing its mission and vision. Key areas of focus include delivering justice effectively, efficiently, and fairly by performing judicial duties without bias, ensuring timely case resolution, and managing resources accountably. It also aims to enhance access to justice by minimizing barriers, providing useful information, and promoting problem-solving courts. The plan also focuses on improving public understanding of the judicial process through education and outreach, modernizing court administration and facilities, and maintaining a professional, ethical, and skilled judiciary and workforce.