John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
Stanford Law School's Deborah L. Rhode Center on the Legal Profession and Legal Design Lab has released a new report that aims to improve access to justice by outlining a strategy for modernizing courts. This report is a result of the collaboration between the Superior Court of Los Angeles County and Stanford Law School, initiated in January 2024. The report underscores the court's commitment to self-represented litigants and justice innovation.
“The Superior Court of Los Angeles County is committed to innovative transformation that enhances efficiency, accessibility, and fairness in the justice system for all residents of Los Angeles County,” said Presiding Judge Sergio C. Tapia II. The partnership with Stanford is seen as essential in using data to drive improvements, allowing the court to provide fair and timely access.
The Superior Court of Los Angeles County, the largest trial court in the nation, has taken a lead role in revolutionizing the civil justice system for millions across America. The report showcases their innovative partnership with Stanford, which employs data analytics and user surveys to ensure the courts maintain their leadership in accessibility and innovation.
David W. Slayton, Executive Officer/Clerk of Court, emphasized the Court's strategic position to drive justice system changes. He noted the partnership with Stanford Law provides a guide for future improvements in access to justice for Los Angeles County's residents and potentially for courts nationwide.
According to Stanford law professor David Freeman Engstrom, the report provides a roadmap for change that integrates Stanford's expertise with the court's leadership to tackle the challenges of high-volume civil dockets. Engstrom said, "Together, we can create a modernized model court and build a robust evidence base for other courts to follow.”
A central focus over the past year has been eviction cases, crucial for tenant and landlord rights. The report highlights an increase in evictions by corporate landlords, a growing representation gap between landlords and tenants, and challenges in using court-hosted digital tools.
The Court will hold two webinars for further discussion on the report's findings, one focused on Los Angeles and the other on a national perspective regarding court modernization. These sessions aim to foster dialogue among legal aid providers, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
The findings and the ongoing collaboration with Stanford offer a blueprint for other courts aiming to modernize and enhance justice accessibility. Margaret Hagan, director of Stanford’s Legal Design Lab, emphasized the importance of listening to court users and stakeholders to develop human-centered innovations.
More information on the Court's programs and the partnership is available on their official social media channels and website.
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