Requesting The Judiciary To Urge Courts To Prioritize Victim And Witness Rights To Speedy Trials.
Impact
If enacted, SCR208 would push the Judiciary to implement measures that prioritize victim and witness rights, including limiting the number of continuances in trials and ensuring that trials commence within a specified timeframe. This move is significant as it seeks to create a more victim-centered approach within the judicial system, potentially leading to quicker resolutions in cases, which could mitigate some of the adverse effects associated with lengthy court proceedings. The resolution signals a shift towards an empathetic legal framework that acknowledges and seeks to alleviate the struggles faced by victims.
Summary
Senate Concurrent Resolution 208 (SCR208) aims to address the rights of victims and witnesses in the judicial process, specifically focusing on the right to speedy trials. The resolution highlights the psychological impact that court proceedings can have on victims, particularly those of sexual offenses, who may suffer from emotional distress, depression, and PTSD as a result of prolonged legal processes. It recognizes the urgency of these issues, especially for young victims, who are especially vulnerable to negative mental health outcomes from extended court involvement.
Contention
While the resolution is positioned as a means to enhance victim protections, there may be discussions on its feasibility and the balance of interests between expediting trials and ensuring a fair and thorough judicial process. Critics could argue that strict deadlines may hinder the defense's ability to prepare adequately, thus compromising fair trial rights. As with many legislative measures focusing on victim rights, there is a delicate balance to maintain between expeditious proceedings and thorough judicial inquiry, making this resolution a potential point of contention among legal professionals and advocacy groups.
Requesting The Judiciary To Conduct A Study On Existing Laws, Policies, And Procedures That Are Designed To Assist And Protect Pro Se Parties With Physical And Intellectual Disabilities.
Requesting The Office Of The Administrative Director Of The Courts Of The Hawaii State Judiciary To Collect, Compile, And Share Data On The Assessment Of Fees, Court Costs, Fines, And Restitution In Cases Against Minors.
Requesting The Criminal Justice Research Institute, In Collaboration With The Judiciary And Department Of Public Safety, To Report On The Outcomes Of Individuals Released On Bail And Other Forms Of Pretrial Release.
Urging The Department Of Human Services, Department Of Health, And Judiciary To Prioritize Ensuring That Contracts For Government Services Are Adequately Resourced To Cover The Costs Of Providing Those Services.
Requesting The Judiciary To Examine The Frequency Of Complaints For Summary Possession And Motions For Summary Judgment That Are Granted In Favor Of The Landlord When The Landlord Is Represented By Counsel And The Tenant Is Acting Pro Se.
Urging The Hawaii Housing Finance And Development Corporation To Prioritize The Allocation Of Funds From The Rental Housing Revolving Fund, Dwelling Unit Revolving Fund, And Low-income Housing Tax Credits For Projects That Will Make The Most Efficient Use Of Taxpayer Funds And Address The Most Urgent State Priorities.
Urging The Department Of Health To Continue To Prioritize Testing Of Fecal Indicator Bacteria Levels In The Waters Of Pokai Bay And Requesting The City And County Of Honolulu Department Of Parks And Recreation To Prioritize Renovations Of The Restroom Facilities At Pokai Bay.
Constitutional amendment to increase the non-lawyer membership of and provide for the selection judiciary commission members and to require investigations be conducted by directive of the supreme court. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (EN +$7,115 GF EX See Note)