Research Activity Policy

About the Program

Category: Criminal Justice and Public Safety (Best in Category)

Year: 2013

The Circuit Court of Lake County, Illinois Research Activity Policy was implemented in December 2010. The purpose for its development was to provide a standardized policy to guide students, academic institutions and outside agencies in conducting research within the Circuit Court. Prior to this, no formal research policy existed in the Circuit Court, or in the any other circuit within the State of Illinois. The Research Activities Policy established a uniform procedure for submitting and approving requests from independent researchers for the purposes of research or evaluations. The policy is applicable to all external organizations or individuals or by employees not acting in their official capacity (i.e., students). The policy addresses external research projects conducted concerning court programs, services and other activities under the jurisdiction of the Circuit Court. The findings from such research are used to inform court leaders regarding the status of existing programs and operations. The research policy affirms the court’s commitment to the principles of evidence-based practices and the belief that research can contribute to new judicial, administrative, and correctional practices. Collaboration and partnership between independent researchers and the court organization contributes to more efficient and effective use of organizational resources and increases public trust, understanding and confidence in the judicial system.