Steering Committee on Problem-Solving Courts

Steering Committee on Problem-Solving Courts

The purpose of the Steering Committee on Problem-Solving Courts is to continue addressing the needs of court-engaged individuals with mental illness and substance use disorders through the use of differentiated case management principles and other evidence-based and emerging best practices. In carrying out that purpose, the Steering Committee on Problem Solving Courts shall perform its responsibilities consistent with The Long-Range Strategic Plan for the Florida Judicial Branch 2022 - 2027PDF Download,  including Goal 1.2 (Ensure the fair and timely resolution of all cases through proactive, effective, and consistent case management practices), Goal 1.5 (Encourage the use of consistent practices, procedures, and forms statewide), Goal 2.4 (Collaborate with justice system partners and community organizations to deliver appropriate services), and Goal 2.6 (Promote the use of innovative and effective problem-solving courts and alternative dispute resolution processes). The steering committee acts as the governance group for all problem-solving courts in the state.

Administrative Order Establishing the Steering Committee on Problem-Solving Courts:  Supreme Court Administrative Order AOSC22-29PDF Download

Membership List  for the 2022-2024 Steering Committee on Problem-Solving Courts: Committee Member ListPDF Download

What are court committees?

Committees are the mechanism established by the Florida Supreme Court for developing consensus on appropriate judicial branch policies affecting the administration of justice. While the state courts system is administered by the chief justice and the Florida Supreme Court, the policy development strategy of the judicial branch is, in many respects, very collegial.  Due to the nature of the judicial branch, the development and implementation of policies and procedures for the trial and appellate court involves a complex, and often lengthy, process. Committees may be appointed when a specific issue or concern is brought to the Florida Supreme Court’s attention, or when the Florida Supreme Court desires to evaluate and improve the court system’s performance in a particular area. Court committees make a vital contribution to the function of the judicial branch. 

Current Charges

Charge One:

Continue to develop best practice standards or guidelines for juvenile drug court and driving under the influence court and recommend revisions to approved and previously proposed draft standards or guidelines, as needed. 

Charge Two:

Continue to provide guidance to the Office of the State Courts Administrator on the development of statewide problem-solving court training initiatives on best practices. 

Charge Three:

Guide the Problem-Solving Court Advisory Group with making funding recommendations to the Trial Court Budget Commission, as needed, based on regular updates provided by the Advisory Group. 

Last Modified: February 07, 2024