Los Angeles County courts begin downsizing

Los Angeles County courts begin downsizing

LOS ANGELES (AP) — The Los Angeles County court system has begun massive layoffs because of budget problems, and the presiding judge says more trouble is ahead.

Cutbacks in the vast court system went into effect today, with targeted employees being handed layoff notices and packages of information on how to get health insurance and other benefits.

The layoffs involve more than 430 employees and 56 courtrooms across the county. The workers are initially being placed on two-weeks administrative leave to get their affairs in order.

The presiding judge says a job fair will be organized to help them find other jobs.

Union representatives standing outside the main courthouse are wearing stickers saying “Justice has left the building.”