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
United States Census data indicate that the number of elders in the U.S. population has increased and is projected to reach an unprecedented proportion of the general population in the coming years. Numerous surveys substantiate the increase in elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation cases over the last decade, with expectations of further increases.
The courts are uniquely positioned to identify and intervene in cases where elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation may be suspected. Through the effective management of these cases, courts can protect the elderly from the various forms of abuse to which they are vulnerable.
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.
The Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group has established a long-term strategic plan to facilitate increased judicial awareness and improve court responses to issues involving the elderly. This plan 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:
- Acknowledges the benefit of proactive, national collaborative efforts such as those initiated by the National Center for State Courts through the Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group; and
- Commends the Elder Abuse and the Courts Working Group to national judicial associations and encourages 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.