State Rep Winslow: State Judiciary Must Get More Efficient

Though the state's top judges have said the new budget could lead to courthouse closings, State Rep. Daniel Winslow said the branch must become more efficient in today's economy.

Winslow, a former judge, said he believed some courthouse closings could streamline the system.

"I think there's always room for efficiency," he said. "I think our courthouses are under-utilized."

He said, though the judiciary has warned about the prospect of court closures, court business could be moved elsewhere.

"Our court system was laid out before the invention of the automobile — that's why all our courts are within a horse-and-buggy ride of each other," he said. "We need to rethink that."

According to boston.com (link above), the Norfolk Juvenile Court in Dedham was mentioned in regards to courthouse closures. If it is closed, the court's business would be moved to Brookline District Court.