GAL grievance clarification of Rule Change Sept 1, 2017

To Whom It May Concern:

Pursuant to RCW Ch. 42.56 (Public Records Act), I hereby request the following records:

Kitsap County Superior Court recently adapted a new policy for handling Grievances filed after a case has been concluded which is different from the policy for handling grievances filed during a pending matter. The new policy is set to take effect on September 1, 2017 and it in part states the following:

(A) Scope. This rule pertains to any grievance which relates to the conduct of
custody investigators in cases which are no longer pending before the
[Superior] Court. Such grievances will be directed to the Juvenile Court Director and
handled as a personnel matter.

This soon to be implemented rule indicates a procedure which does not comport with State Rules for a grievance that is filed once a matter has been closed. The deviation from State Rules deems it reasonable for the Public to take an interest and necessitates an explanation:

Considering the ‘new rule’ most likely requires a certain transfer of authority, it is noteworthy that Not all Guardian Ad Litems work in any capacity with or for the Juvenile court system, and are not “employees” of Kitsap Juvenile Court;

1) Please provide access to the Rules regarding considerations for GAL’s who are not professionally aligned with Kitsap Juvenile Services, what is the procedure for a grievance that is filed after a Superior Court Civil matter is closed for a GAL who is not accountable to Juvenile Court?

The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.

In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.

Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 5 business days, as the statute requires.

Sincerely,

Penny Allen

Hi,

Thanks so much for your help with this request! I really appreciate it.

Sincerely,
Penny Allen