Information Regarding Competency Court

The mission of the Second Judicial District Competency Court is to promptly resolve competency matters and explore alternatives to adjudication when appropriate, ensuring fair and efficient outcomes for all involved.

The Competency Court was established by Administrative Order by Chief Judge Jones in February of 2023 in response to the significant delays occurring in the competency and restoration process in Washoe County.

The Competency Court follows the National Center for State Courts (NCSC) - COMPETENCE to Stand Trial: A Roadmap for State Courts and seeks to combine and consolidate possible diversion and competency related matters in one department, with one judge, and a weekly set docket time, to facilitate efficient case management and timely access to appropriate resources.

The Honorable Egan K. Walker presides over the Competency Court every Friday at 10:00 a.m. in Department 7.

The Competency Court team consists of a representative from the Washoe County District Attorney, Public Defender, and Alternate Public Defender’s offices, a Case Compliance Specialist, and representatives from multiple state and local behavioral health and criminal justice agencies.

Goals

  1. Reduce case backlog by implementing procedures that standardize the competency process and decrease the average time from case initiation to resolution and utilizing limited competency resources in only appropriate cases.
  2. Provide timely access to restoration, mental health, and rehabilitation resources to support individuals involved in the competency process.
  3. Develop partnerships with stakeholders including mental health professionals, social services, and legal experts to assist with identifying individuals who may qualify for alternatives to adjudication.
  4. Expand diversion programs and treatment plans as alternatives to traditional adjudication for suitable cases.
  5. Increase transparency and improve communication by holding regularly scheduled court hearings, staffing, and stakeholder’s meetings.

Contact

Case Compliance Specialist:
Karlye Hutchinson
(775) 328-3258
Karlye.Hutchinson@washoecourts.us

Competency Court Judge

Portrait of the Egan Walker

The Honorable Chief Judge Egan Walker

Biography
Courtroom Calendar