Great Lakes Wire

Elizabeth Clement recently said she was honored to be chosen as chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court by her peers.

Clement said she looks forward to working with judges and court professionals statewide for the next two years, according to a news release from Michigan Courts.

"In the new year and beyond, we all look forward to working with judges and court professionals statewide to further our shared commitment to civility, transparency, and accountability," Clement said in the news release. "Together, we can achieve our shared mission to ensure courts are independent, accessible, engaged, and provide an efficient justice system that works for everyone.

"Our agenda is ambitious, but I know the judicial branch has the passion and energy to meet every challenge. For example, juvenile justice reform is a priority as courts provide the information and expertise necessary to help enact and implement common-sense policy measures that will guide and protect young people at risk. We have the opportunity in 2023 to make Michigan a national leader in positive outcomes for every child who is engaged with the justice system."

Clement said the Michigan Judicial Council will convene with stakeholders "to make courts more welcoming, easier to navigate, and staffed by professionals with the latest technology training."

"Data will help drive all of these initiatives," she said. "This is one of the reasons the judiciary has focused on implementing a statewide case management system. This historic step forward will save money, allow for expansion of online court services, and increase opportunities to share resources, making the entire justice system more efficient and effective. Just as important, better collection and sharing of data will allow for more transparent decision-making and improved policy development."

Clement finished her statement by welcoming Justice Kyra Harris Bolden to the court, the news release noted. Clement said Harris Bolden's "perspective, life experience, knowledge, and ability to connect with people and their everyday concerns" will be a welcomed asset.