What is differentiated case management (DCM)?
DCM allows courts to tailor specific judicial resources, processes, and time frames to specific case types. Courts recognize that cases differ substantially in the time required for fair and just dispositions. Rather than processing cases on a first-in/first-out basis, courts use DCM to create multiple case-processing paths to expedite case-processing times and public-policy priorities. DCM tracks can be established for civil or criminal case types depending upon caseload composition, resources, etc. Expressions such as “fast tracking” and “rocket docket” are often synonymous with DCM initiatives.
