NAVIGATION

You are here: Court Programs > Elder Justice Center > About Elder Justice Center

About Elder Justice Center

Description

The Elder Justice Center (EJC) is a court program that primarily helps persons age sixty (60) or older who are involved in the court system because of guardianship, family or other civil matters.

History
Established in 1999 through grant funding from the Area Agency on Aging, Victim of Crimes Association and the Retirement Research Foundation, The Elder Justice Center emerged as a leader in the nation in addressing issues facing our senior citizens in the court system.  A community task force provided assistance with initial strategic planning and the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners also provided personnel and operating expenses.

In a statement to the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, advocating for the further implementation of Elder Justice Centers, the 13th Judicial Circuit’s EJC was included as a “model for judicial response to complex issues presented when elders interact with the courts.” It was noted that Centers “address the inevitable fear, confusion, uncertainty, lack of confidence experienced by many elders confronting the courts for perhaps the first time, especially those with dementia or mental health issues.”

Performance Measures
Not available at this time.