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Bismarck, N.D. (AP) Chief Justice Gerald VandeWalle will be briefing North Dakota lawmakers about issues in North Dakota's judicial system.

VandeWalle is addressing a joint session of the House and Senate on Wednesday.

The Supreme Court is responsible for administering North Dakota's trial court system. Budget documents say the court intends to ask lawmakers to approve two new district judgeships.

North Dakota has had 42 trial judges since 2001, when a judicial consolidation program was completed.

The Supreme Court is also requesting a 16 percent budget increase for two years and 11 new employees including a staff attorney, a family court coordinator and deputy court clerks in Williston and Bismarck.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 01-07-09 0516CST | save this article / add to your favorites list