IMPROVEMENTS

How Judge Kathryn George Improved the Probate Court

• Initiated hearing-impaired equipment in courtroom.

• Pushed for training attorneys and guardians ad litem to better represent individuals in probate court matters.

• Began staff training to better deliver information to persons not represented by attorneys.

• Established fee schedules for attorneys and fiduciaries to reduce expenses to estates and individuals under conservatorships.

• Implemented rule that proceedings begin at 8:30 a.m. promptly for the mentally ill probate court docket; this rule has resulted in higher efficiency and greater convenience for the public.

• Made Probate Court employees adhere to the requirement not to represent anyone in Macomb County Probate Court matters.

• Eliminated unnecessary illegal staff absences.

• Improved technology to make the court more user friendly and assist the public to better understand the Probate Court and how to represent themselves.

• Assisted the Sheriff’s Department with a program that diverts mentally ill individuals for treatment instead of incarceration (for non-violent crimes).

• Provided a safer environment for staff and employees by improving security, providing CPR training for staff, and arranging for donation of emergency medical equipment.

"Michigan County Recognizes Value of Jail Diversion Program."

• "The driving force behind the new program and its main coordinator is Macomb County Probate Judge Kathryn A. George, a stuanch advocate for improving the county's mental health system."
          - Psychiatric News, American Psychiatric Association, Novemeber 7th, 2003.