Why Monitor

Why Monitor Courtrooms:

• 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.