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

Given the rapid growth of the aging population and the needs for improving access to the courts for our senior citizens, the Administrative Office of the Courts established the first Elder Justice Center in the nation. The goals of the program include:

Staff make presentations throughout the year at senior expos and other community forums about the services at the Elder Justice Center, guardianship avoidance and the prevention of crime victimization. In addition, other staff are dedicated to reviewing cases from the Guardianship Division to provide recommendations to the judge for court action when deemed appropriate.

History:
In a statement for 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.”

Staffing:
The EJC employs two full-time court counselors who provide case management review in guardianship cases. Hillsborough County has approximately 3,000 open guardianship cases. These court counselors provide support to the court by reviewing all guardianship plans and accountings to ensure that the court is receiving adequate information on the ward. If the court has questions that require further information, these court counselors can be appointed as a court monitor to investigate the court's concerns. Upon completion of the investigation, a Report and Recommendation is filed with the court and sent to interested parties. The EJC also employs a court counselor who assists elders who require assistance with legal or social issues. Although this office does NOT provide legal advice, the EJC does provide assistance with the completion of injunctions for domestic and repeat violence. Additionally, referrals to legal and social service agencies can be provided to assist the elder.

 MISSION:
To remove barriers and enhance the linkages between seniors and the court system, as well as social and legal services.
GOAL 1
To provide a designated facility to respond to the needs of the elderly.
GOAL 2
To provide public education for the elderly and those who work with them.
GOAL 3
To coordinate access to existing agencies that presently provide services to the elderly.
GOAL 4
To provide case management services to victims.
GOAL 5
To provide case management services on guardianship cases.