In March 2024, I, HW Kyembe KARIM, Magistrate for ATIAK, Uganda, embarked on a courtesy visit to the Maryland Judiciary. The warm welcome from State Court Administrator Judy K. Rupp was just the beginning of an unforgettable day.
Judy expertly guided me through the Maryland judicial system, showcasing its efficiency and innovative use of technology. But what struck me most was the judiciary’s commitment to Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) strategies. We explored their mediation and arbitration methods, which left me pondering: “Why can’t we Ugandans resolve disputes over a cup of tea, too?”
Hon. Donna M. Schaeffer, Judge, and I engaged in a lively discussion on leveraging IT to enhance justice delivery. We laughed about the challenges of digitizing old records, but seriously explored ways to:
- Eliminate backlog: through efficient case management.
- Improve child justice: through specialized courts.
- Enhance access to justice: through online portals.
The day’s excitement continued with a city tour of historic Annapolis, courtesy of the kind and steadfast Lou Gieszl. As we strolled along the Chesapeake Bay, I quipped, “This is what they mean by ‘justice being served with a view’!” Lou chuckled, and we bonded over our shared love of history.
I also had the pleasure of meeting Shamika Dent Williams, court administrator, and Doug Hofstedt, Court Administrator for Anne Arundel County . Doug shared valuable insights on court administration, highlighting the importance of effective management in ensuring justice is served.
Key takeaways from my visit:
- ADR strategies can significantly reduce caseloads.
- Technology can streamline justice delivery.
- Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are essential.
As I left Maryland, I felt inspired to implement these lessons in Uganda. Who knows? Maybe one day, we’ll have our own “Justice with a View” in ATIAK!
