The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors held an informal meeting on September 29, 2025, focusing on the operations and challenges faced by the local justice courts. Judge Lenore Driggs, presiding justice of the peace for the Arcadia Biltmore Justice Precinct, led the discussion, joined by fellow judges and the newly appointed court administrator, Jennifer Herold.

The meeting aimed to clarify the structure and functions of the court system in Arizona, distinguishing between federal and state courts. Judge Driggs explained that justice courts, where most residents are likely to interact, handle a significant volume of cases, primarily traffic violations, which account for 40% of their workload. These violations include speeding, DUI offenses, and other infractions issued by the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Highway Safety.

In addition to traffic cases, the justice courts also manage criminal misdemeanors such as assault and shoplifting, as well as civil matters including eviction cases and small claims lawsuits. Judge Driggs highlighted the increasing number of eviction cases, which have garnered media attention, reflecting broader societal issues.

The judges provided data indicating a steady rise in case filings since the pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, emphasizing the growing demand for court services. The meeting underscored the importance of understanding the court system's role in the community and the need for clear communication regarding its operations.

As the meeting concluded, the judges expressed their commitment to making the court processes more accessible and understandable for the public, aiming to enhance community engagement and awareness of the justice system's functions.