February 18, 2014 ~ This was the best day thus far.

I had an opportunity to meet and sit with my site supervisor at Legislature Hall, Dover Delaware. This was meeting of the Open Family Court Task Force Public Forum Discussion. As Chairs and members appointed to represent the public there was a great interest in hearing everyones input on the matter of whether or not Family Court proceedings currently identified as being closed/private should remain as such or if they should be made open/private. Time for the forum was limited so as result the chairs of the Task Force had to lead and facilitate the conversation. I was most impressed with the civility and calmness of the committee members. However, it was evident that everyone at the table had very strong feelings about the Family Court or has had an emotionally charged experience within the court system. But civility and calmness prevailed. I must admit that I have on more than one occasion felt our judicial process is antiquated and sluggish however, I departed the forum with a better feel for our judicial process. So what are the factors, I feel, for closed proceedings? 1. Any safety concerns of the Court or the parties 2. The position of the parties, especially children 3. The effect of the release of private information involving children 4. The opinion of medical professionals treating those involved, especially children 5. The likelihood of releasing medical or financial information This was a great experience.