A team of dedicated court employees from the 17th Judicial Circuit was in Omaha, NE, this week for the 2025 Annual Conference of the National Association for Court Management.

This year’s conference focused on strengthening public trust in the courts through strategies that enhance the court user experience and foster effective collaborations. Sessions exploredbest practices in public information sharing, cultural responsiveness, support for individuals with limited English proficiency, assistance for self-represented litigants, and initiatives that promote access and fairness for all.

We’re proud to have sent our team there, gaining valuable insights to bring back to our community.

Pictured left to right: Alex Villoria, Meisha Kellyman, Marhea Lascano, Sheree Edwards, Jeremiah Ortiz, Joe D’Amico, Lizete Guete Ibarra and Rafael Ferrans.

More than 80 court public information officers from across the country gathered in Santa Fe, New Mexico, this week to exchange ideas on court communications, judicial security, and using social media to share the stories of the courts. Representing the 17th Judicial Circuit was our own Court PIO, Sallie James.

The conference featured innovative discussions, including the Arizona Supreme Court’s groundbreaking use of avatars to explain court decisions and a thought-provoking conversation about the pros and cons of livestreaming trials. Attendees also explored strategies for handling high-profile cases, highlighted by firsthand insights from the PIO who managed the intense national and international media attention surrounding actor Alec Baldwin’s Rust trial.

Participants toured the New Mexico State Capitol and Supreme Court, building connections and sharing expertise that will strengthen court communication efforts across the country. This conference was an invaluable opportunity to connect with experienced court communications professionals, share best practices, and build relationships that will serve the courts for years to come.