Supreme Court introduces Judicial Officer Mentorship Program

The Iowa Supreme Court has introduced a Judicial Officer Mentorship Program, launching Jan. 1, 2025, to support judges in resolving cases under advisement more promptly. Under Iowa Court Rule 22.10, judges must file monthly reports on cases they've had under advisement for over 60 days, explaining any delays. To help judges facing challenges in timely case resolution, the program will assign mentors to judges who have three or more cases under advisement for 180 days or longer or any case under advisement for 240 days or longer.

Mentors, or experienced senior judges with timely decision records, will be chosen by the state court administrator and relevant chief judge with the Supreme Court's approval. These mentors will check in monthly with the mentored judge, discuss case management strategies, and report progress. Once a judge reduces delayed cases below the program's thresholds, the mentorship will end. Mentorship does not transfer judicial responsibilities but instead offers guidance and support, with communications remaining confidential to a limited circle of court officials. The Iowa Supreme Court will review the program periodically and adjust as needed.

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