As we move forward with updates to our docket structure, I want to provide clarification regarding the timing and scope of these changes. The adjustments are intended to improve efficiency, accommodate our three new magistrates, and move cases more effectively toward permanency and stability for children and families.

With any change, some growing pains are expected, and we appreciate your continued patience and professionalism during this transition.

Effective Immediately

The following changes are effective immediately:

• Settlement Docket

  • The Settlement Docket no longer exists and has been merged with Tuesday’s Dependency & Neglect (DN) docket.

• Preliminary Hearings

  • Preliminary hearings may:

    • Remain on the assigned magistrate’s preliminary docket for status;

    • Be moved to another magistrate’s preliminary docket for status when that magistrate has significant case history (including prior adjudications); or

    • Be moved by the magistrate to their DN docket for adjudication, at the magistrate’s discretion.

• Weekly Docket Structure

  • Wednesdays will now include two preliminary hearing dockets.

  • Fridays will now include two all-day Dependency & Neglect dockets.

• A & B Dockets

  • A & B dockets will take place in the same courtroom.

  • Because these dockets are virtual, staff and parties should anticipate the need for patience as magistrates rotate individuals who appear physically into the courtroom as needed.

Effective April 20, 2026 – First Setting Docket Changes

The following changes will take effect April 20, 2026:

• Currently, DCS First Setting cases are docketed at 9:00 a.m., and non-DCS First Setting cases are docketed at 1:00 p.m.

• Beginning April 20, 2026:

  • The 9:00 a.m. First Setting docket will be limited to non-DCS cases only.

  • All DCS First Setting cases must be placed on the 1:00 p.m. docket.

• First Setting dockets should be used only for non-emergency cases.

 

Thank you for your continued cooperation and dedication as we implement these changes. Your role is critical to ensuring these updates are successful, and we appreciate your flexibility and commitment to the work of the Court.

Please feel free to reach out with any questions as we move forward.