What is court monitoring?

Court monitoring takes many forms, from short term projects to programs that have been operating since the 1970s. But court monitoring groups share a common belief: Public scrutiny of the courts is essential to ensure the courts are fair and just. WATCH is the first court monitoring program to focus solely on making the justice system more responsive to women and children who have been victimized by sexual or domestic violence. Dozens of other groups have chosen a similar focus. Some programs monitor particular hearings, for example DWI or drug-related; some monitor for racial bias; others look at courtroom demeanor and judicial impartiality.

Why monitor the courts?

Observing hearings day after day provides a comprehensive way to examine a local justice system and its procedures and practices. By collecting and recording observations over time, court monitoring groups can document ongoing problems and make recommendations to improve the courts.

Systems that are unmonitored and unaudited will often tend to accommodate their own conveniences. The presence of observers in the courtroom can promote accountability and serve as a strong reminder that the public has a vested interest in what happens there.

WATCH promotes court monitoring across the country because it is an effective way to make systematic improvements in the justice system. Our experience and that of others, demonstrates that regular monitoring, clear reporting, and specific recommendations can lead to positive change.