Expanding and Growing Engagement
Institutionalization occurs when rules, practices, and values become embedded in an organization or entity. Institutionalization of public engagement can be triggered by a formal policy or rule. For example, it is often legally required to convene a public hearing or comment process as new legislation or rules are developed. In other settings, the process of institutionalization can take longer as practices or behavior evolve into new norms. Institutionalization of public engagement may often involve a combination of formal decisions, learning and practicing the skills necessary for public engagement (both among court actors and community members your court serves), and repeating and growing public engagement activities until they become part of your court’s daily work.
Public Engagement Pilot Team Examples
- The Franklin County, Ohio Municipal Court decided to expand community engagements beyond special dockets to its entire court.
- The Kansas City, Missouri Municipal Court decided to convene engagement sessions with court defendants and incarcerated individuals.
- The Administrative Office of the Massachusetts Trial Court expanded its engagement efforts to town halls, community conversations about race, and virtual/online platforms.
- The Puerto Rico Judicial Branch created working groups composed of community leaders and court professionals to address and resolve issues of community conflict.