Arizona Supreme Court Chief Robert Brutinel and Vice Chief Ann Scott Timmer recently spent a significant part of their day in Cochise County as part of their ongoing statewide tour to engage with local judges. This initiative, started by Brutinel five years ago, aims to maintain open communication with counties. Timmer, set to replace Brutinel in June, joined the tour to familiarize herself with local challenges and successes.

Assessing Achievements and Future Needs

The day began with a meeting between Brutinel, Timmer, and local judges to discuss accomplishments during Brutinel’s tenure and identify future needs. Timmer emphasized the importance of understanding what has worked well, what hasn’t, and gaining insights into the local court system’s dynamics.

Arizona’s Progressive Justice System

Brutinel highlighted Arizona’s reputation as a progressive justice system, known for its willingness to experiment with new approaches. Over the years, the state has focused on improving justice accessibility, implementing jury reforms, and addressing the needs of individuals with mental health challenges.

Recognizing Success in Cochise County

Expressing satisfaction, Brutinel commended Cochise County for its hard work and dedication to the community. He acknowledged the county’s positive efforts and emphasized the commitment of local judges to serve the community effectively.

Roundtable Discussion with Community Leaders

In the afternoon, Brutinel and Timmer engaged in a roundtable discussion with community leaders and local judges. Law enforcement raised concerns about the rising number of cases related to human smuggling and the limited resources available for mental health support. Both chiefs acknowledged these concerns and expressed readiness to explore solutions.

Achievements and Future Goals

Brutinel shared that, during his five-year tenure, 99% of his strategic plan initiatives were accomplished. Timmer, however, sees further room for growth. She emphasized the primary goal of ensuring access to civil justice and highlighted the importance of rebuilding public trust in the judiciary.

Building Public Confidence

Timmer stressed the need to prioritize public perception and confidence in the judiciary. She recognized the challenges of recent years that led to some losing faith in the judicial system. Timmer believes that initiatives like the statewide tour contribute to understanding diverse county needs and rebuilding public trust.

Conclusion: Strengthening Judicial Understanding and Public Trust

In conclusion, the visit to Cochise County reflects the ongoing commitment of Arizona’s Supreme Court chiefs to engage with local communities. By assessing achievements, addressing concerns, and outlining future goals, the judiciary aims to strengthen its connection with the public and build a more confident and accessible justice system.