Goals

 Purpose of DVCC Court Watch Program

·         A truly effective justice system plays a pivotal role in ending the cycle of domestic violence.  By providing a public presence in our courtrooms, analyzing data, and developing reports, the

·         DVCC Court Watch Program strives to increase accountability of perpetrators and enhance

·         victim safety and confidence in the system. 

 Mission of DVCC Court Watch Program:

• To make the Douglas County justice system more effective and responsive in handling cases of domestic violence and to create a more informed and involved public.

 Goals of DVCC Court Watch Program:

• Improve the administration of justice in domestic violence cases;

• Increase public awareness and public trust in the justice system’s handling of domestic violence  cases;

• Increase accountability of the justice system’s handling of domestic violence cases;

•  Provide courts a valuable perspective by maintaining a public presence in the courtrooms in domestic violence cases;

• Propose practical solutions to improve court responses in domestic violence cases.

 

Guiding Principles of DVCC Court Watch Program:

• Maintain a constructive relationship with the justice system;

• Assist justice system reach its potential by recommending practical solutions and advocating for change;

• Communicate and share information with organizations and agencies in Douglas County that   provide direct services and advocacy for victims of domestic violence;

• Educate the system and community;

• Encourage and support judicial independence.

 DVCC Court Watch IS NOT:

• A vigilante or extremist organization “Out to get” judges or defendants or to restrict judicial independence

• Affiliated with any political party or religious faith

• A provider of victim advocacy or direct services

Why We Monitor:

·         Provide a Public Presence:  Court monitoring organizations serve as an impartial sounding board to bring concerns to the public’s attention.  They often provide a forum for an ongoing, constructive dialogue between citizens, the judiciary, and other members of the justice system.  Just the presence of a monitor in the courtroom sends a strong message that our community is united against domestic violence.

• Promote Accountability: The justice system must be held accountable for how it handles domestic violence cases, and for the impact of its actions.  The presence of observers in the courtroom can promote accountability and serve as a strong reminder that the public takes     these crimes seriously and has a vested interest in how the system handles this issue.

• Bring Perspective:  It is difficult for those working in the justice system to view their work as others do.  Court monitors are able to provide the perspective of victims, defendants, and the general public to the criminal justice system in a calm and rational manner.  DVCC Court Watch encourages and welcomes participation by volunteers from varied backgrounds, to further    enhance perspective. 

• Educate the Public: A court watch organization can play an important role in educating voters.  In Nebraska, judges are political appointees who must stand for retention every six years.  They and elected officials, such as legislators, the county attorney, the public defender, city council  members, key law enforcement officials, and county commissioners have a powerful influence    over how crimes of domestic violence are perceived, processed and penalized.  The public should be better informed about judicial conduct and other aspects of the criminal justice system, so that they can make prudent decisions at election time.  Further, education of the    public makes the system more accessible and understandable.  Finally, exposure to the system can help educate the public about positive policies, practices and procedures already in place.

Click here for a detailed listing of current and former court watch programs around the United States.