In Support of the National Center for State Courts - Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group
Resolution 9: In Support of the National Center for State Courts - Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group
WHEREAS, United States Census data indicate the number of elders in the United States population has increased and is projected to reach an unprecedented proportion of the general population in the coming years; and
WHEREAS, numerous surveys substantiate the increase in elder abuse, neglect and exploitation cases over the last decade with expectation of further increases; and
WHEREAS, the courts are in the unique position to identify and to intervene in cases where elder abuse, neglect and exploitation may be suspected; and
WHEREAS, through the effective management of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation cases, the courts may protect the elderly from the various forms of abuse to which they are exposed; and
WHEREAS, the National Center for State Courts has created the Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group, a national multidisciplinary group of experts to assist courts in identifying cases of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation and to develop toolkits and resources that will improve court responses; and
WHEREAS, the Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group has a long-term strategic plan to facilitate increased judicial awareness and improved court responses to issues involving the elderly, which includes:
- creating consensus on terminology;
- compiling and distributing resources;
- developing tools to help courts identify and respond to cases;
- writing a White Paper to inform public policy;
- developing education and training materials;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Conference of Chief Justices does hereby:
- Acknowledge the benefit of proactive, national collaborative efforts such as that initiated by the National Center for State Courts through the creation of its Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group; and
- Commend the Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group to national judicial associations, and encourage widespread support for the Working Group's ongoing efforts.
Adopted as proposed by the Courts, Children and Families Committee at the 29th Midyear Meeting on January 18, 2006.