Last week, the Iowa Supreme Court issued two orders: one appointing members to the Iowa Access to Justice Commission and another seeking public comment on a proposed amendment to the state’s electronic procedures in criminal cases. Copies of both orders and the proposed rule are available for download on the Iowa Judicial Branch website.
In an order signed on Sept. 15, the chief justice appointed new members to the Iowa Access to Justice Commission and reappointed current members to second terms. The commission is tasked with identifying and addressing barriers that prevent Iowans from fully participating in the legal system. Its work continues to focus on improving access for all individuals, regardless of financial, geographic, or other challenges.
In a separate order signed on Sept. 17, the Iowa Supreme Court requested public comment on a proposed amendment to Iowa Rule of Electronic Procedure 16.412(2)(b)(2). The amendment would require defendants in criminal proceedings who engage in reciprocal discovery to pre-file their proposed exhibits before hearings and trials—aligning them with prosecutors and parties in other case types.
The court is seeking input from attorneys, legal professionals, and the public on the proposed change. Comments must be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17.
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