Courtroom Observation Program

Courtroom Observer Job Description
Nature and scope of duties

The principal role of the volunteer is to observe, document and evaluate the performance of a judge while the judge is sitting on the bench. The Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission will train volunteers to become knowledgeable observers of the state court system and to thoroughly complete the observation report. After training, observers will evaluate judges in multiple courtrooms throughout the state. Observers will also assist in the development of the courtroom observation program through group discussion and individual feedback.

Become a Volunteer

Courtroom Observation Volunteer Application

Qualifications

  • Demonstrate a desire to serve;
  • Willingness to develop a good working knowledge of the courtroom observation program rules, policies and procedures;
  • Willingness to develop a good understanding of the judicial system and procedural justice principles;
  • Ability to write clearly or willingness to develop your writing skills;
  • Suitable computer skills and internet access;
  • Accept responsibility to observe at least 10-15 judges during the first year;
  • Agree to the following conditions:
    • commit to a one-year term of service;
    • do not disclose the content of your courtroom evaluations in any form or to any person except as directed by the commission;
    • satisfactorily complete a training program before beginning observations;
    • provide a social security number for reimbursement of travel expenses.

The following persons are not eligible for the program:

  • anyone with a professional involvement with the state court system, the justice courts, or the judge;
  • anyone with a fiduciary relationship with the judge;
  • spouses and relatives within the third degree of relationship with a state or justice court judge (grandparents, parents or parents-in-law, aunts or uncles, children, nieces and nephews and their spouses);
  • anyone currently involved in litigation in state or justice courts;
  • convicted felons;
  • anyone whose background or experience suggests they may have a bias that would prevent them from objectively serving in the program.

Travel Information

All per diem and lodging will be reimbursed, when appropriate, in accordance with Utah state travel rules and regulations, and only after the courtroom observation report has been completed and submitted.