Civil Justice and Court Improvements

Increasing fairness, access, and efficiency in D.C.’s courts and civil justice system.

Our Commitment to Equity and Access

CCE works on a variety of civil justice, access to justice, and court improvement issues. We conduct research to help enhance court effectiveness and transparency. Our collaborative initiatives address barriers to justice, improve access to legal information, and empower individuals to navigate civil court processes confidently – especially those without legal representation. By fostering dialogue and advocating for systems changes, CCE supports high-functioning courts and equitable civil justice for all District residents.

20%
More than 20% of Superior Court judge positions are vacant in 2024.
400+
More than 400 residents are called for jury service each week in D.C. Superior Court.

1 in 3

Nearly one in three plaintiffs in Superior Court go to court without the help of a lawyer.

7 & 8

Wards 7 & 8 have the most people seeking free legal help.

Recent Civil Justice News

Learn more about our work by reading our most recent reports, papers, and recommendations. 

CCE Hosting 2024 "Meet the Next Chief Judge" Candidate Forum

The Council for Court Excellence invites you to join us and our distinguished co-sponsors for "Meet the Next Chief Judge" on June 13, 2024. At this candidate forum, interested members of the public will hear from the judges who have applied to succeed the Hon. Anita Josey-Herring as the Chief Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.
February 9, 2022

CCE and ATJC Publish New Report on Probate Reform

On February 9, 2022 CCE and the D.C. Access to Justice Commission released a report with 71 recommendations to advance and modernize probate for everyone and enhance access to justice for low- and moderate-income people.

New CCE Videos Explain Assisted Decision-Making Tools Available in the District

In May CCE published two of four educational videos on different assisted decision-making tools discussed in our latest community education guide When Adults Need Help.

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