Overview

• The Nebraska judicial branch is funded by both the state and the counties.  The state pays salaries of all judges, for court reporters in the general jurisdiction courts, for all employees of the limited jurisdiction courts and for statewide juvenile and adult probation.  The counties provide operating expenses for all courts and probation.  
• The Nebraska judicial branch is funded by both the state and the counties.  The state pays salaries of all judges, for court reporters in the general jurisdiction courts, for all employees of the limited jurisdiction courts and for statewide juvenile and adult probation.  The counties provide operating expenses for all courts and probation. Nebraska’s appropriation increased from $89 million in FY11 to $90 million in FY12, an increase of 1%.  They will be able to maintain the same number of judges, the same number of staff and the same level of operating expenses.
• Their FY12 budget includes funds for two special initiatives, which originated in the Legislature:  $100,000 for truancy intervention and $100,000 for Court Appointed Special Advocates.
• To reduce spending, the Nebraska courts have delayed filling judicial vacancies and delayed filling vacancies in the clerks’ offices and in judicial support positions.  They have also reduced travel, the mileage reimbursement rate and equipment purchases.
• No new technologies were introduced during FY11, but enhancements were made to current e-filing and e-payment systems. Use of remote technologies, such as Skype, also increased. Although the full effect of these technologies is still developing, it appears that the same level of court services can be provided despite budget reductions.
• The Nebraska Probation system continues to implement evidence-based practices, such as intensive supervision with treatment for certain drug offenders. However, this has been a multi-year effort that is still ongoing and was not initiated in response to recent budget restrictions.
• The Nebraska Judiciary is actively pursuing a judicial branch reengineering process with the help of the NCSC.

Reports and Articles

• Kevin O'Hanlon. "Lawmakers Discuss Plan to Make Courts More Accessible Amid Budget Crunch." Lincoln Journal-Star. February 11, 2011.
• K. O'Hanlon. "Inceased Fees Offered as Way to Solve Judicial Budget Crisis." Lincoln Journal-Star. January 11, 2011.
• Jim Osborn."30 County Court Offices May Close." Columbus Telegram.com. December 19, 2010.
• JoAnne Young."Nebraska Courts Present Options for Spending Cuts." Journal Star.com. December 7, 2010.
• Melanie Wilkinson."Bar Association Weights In On Court Closures." York News-Times. October 12, 2010.

Gavel to Gavel