In 1991, the Ledislature's Commission of Family Courts issued
its report pursuant to a legislative directive to: develop specific guidelines
for the implementation of a family law division within each judicial circuit;
provide recommendations for statutory, rule and organizational changes;
and recommend necessary support services.
Between 1991 and 2001 three Supreme Court opinions were
issued emphasizing the need for a family court system which would provide
better protection for children in court and an improved method for resolution
of family problems.
In May 2001 the Supreme Court issued a fourth and unanimous
opinion citing twelve guiding principles of a family court as a foundation
for defining and implementing a model family court, including:
Children should live in safe and permanent homes.
Needs and best interest of children are primary considerations.
All persons should be treated with objectivity, sensitivity, dignity
and respect.
Cases with inter-related family issues should be consolidated or coordinated.
The court is responsible for managing its cases.
A means of differentiating cases should be available.
Parties should be empowered to select ways to address their individual
case.
