The Civil and Family Justice Committee, chaired by Circuit Judge Foster Cotthoff with Christopher Griffith of the Christian Appalachian Project serving as vice chair, leads efforts to develop and implement policies and best practices in civil and family courts. Its aim is to ensure that individuals, families and youth experiencing behavioral health challenges or disabilities are met with appropriate and effective responses.
The Guardianship and Commitment Workgroup, under the leadership of Stacy Tapke, President of the Kentucky County Attorneys Association, has focused on strengthening Kentucky's guardianship and civil commitment systems. Its priorities include promoting consistent practices statewide, advancing reforms that align with person-centered principles and ensuring timely access to treatment and supports.
The Domestic Violence Workgroup, chaired by Judge Denise Brown of the 30th Judicial Circuit, Family Division, has worked to advance court and community responses to intimate partner violence. By identifying best practices, developing tools for judicial officers and engaging multidisciplinary partners, this workgroup has elevated the importance of coordinated and trauma-informed approaches.
The Dependency, Neglect and Abuse Workgroup, led by Judge Marcus L. Vanover, Circuit Judge for the 28th Judicial Circuit, has centered its work on improving family court responses to child welfare cases. Its efforts focus on creating policies, training resources and best practice models that better support children and families impacted by abuse, neglect and instability.