The Minnesota Supreme Court is looking for a dedicated volunteer to join the Competency Attainment Board, a seven‑member governing body that provides strategic direction and oversight for Minnesota’s competency attainment system.
Board members ensure that people with mental illnesses, substance use disorders, or cognitive impairments have access to high-quality, independent services that support their ability to understand and participate in court proceedings.
This is an opportunity to contribute to an important statewide effort that promotes fairness, accountability, and positive outcomes within Minnesota’s justice and behavioral health systems.
What the Board Does
- Provides governance and strategic oversight for an independent, statewide system that certifies competency attainment programs.
- Establishes and monitors standards for the forensic navigator program and promotes prevention and diversion strategies that may reduce involvement in the criminal justice system.
- Oversees program quality, accountability, and continuous improvement to help ensure forensic navigator and competency attainment services remain effective, independent, and evidence informed.
- Promotes collaboration among courts, service providers, community partners, and state agencies to improve outcomes for individuals involved in the competency process.
Who We’re Looking For
The Board benefits from a variety of perspectives and experiences. Individuals with backgrounds in behavioral health, disability services, advocacy, education, public safety, the courts, community-based services, or related fields are encouraged to apply.
We welcome applicants who:
- Are committed to improving Minnesota’s response to competency related challenges and supporting fair, effective, unbiased systems.
- Value accountability, independence, and high standards in competency attainment and forensic navigator services.
- Are interested in providing thoughtful oversight and helping shape the future direction of Minnesota’s competency attainment system.
- Have familiarity with Minnesota Statutes § 611.40–611.59, Rule 20 of the Minnesota Rules of Criminal Procedure, Chapter 253B, and/or related behavioral health, judicial, public safety, or criminal justice systems.
- Live anywhere in the state; however at least three board members must live outside the First, Second, Fourth, and Tenth Judicial Districts.
Time Commitment
- The Board typically meets remotely once per month for approximately 90 minutes.
- Board members should expect additional responsibilities throughout the year, including reviewing board materials, participating in committee or workgroup activities, attending occasional special meetings, and preparing for certification, policy, or strategic planning discussions.
- Service requires an ongoing commitment to active engagement and informed decision-making in support of the Board’s governance responsibilities.
How to Apply
Send a letter of interest telling us about your background and why you want to serve. Resumes are welcome but not required.
Deadline: Friday, December 4, 2026, at 4:30 P.M. (All applications must be received by then.)
Send your letter to: Christa Rutherford‑Block, Clerk of the Appellate Courts
Email (preferred): mjcappellateclerkofcourt@courts.state.mn.us
Mail: 305 Minnesota Judicial Center, 25 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., St. Paul, MN 55155
We’re excited to add passionate volunteers who will make a real difference in our justice system. If you want to help build a safer, fairer path for people in need, we’d love to hear from you.