Kentucky's chief justice says the state's judicial branch expects a $37.8 million deficit in 2011.

Chief Justice John D. Minton Jr. spoke to the Interim Judiciary Committee on Tuesday, telling members the courts could also face cuts in the current fiscal year.

The Lexington Herald-Leader quoted Minton saying Gov. Steve Beshear will likely ask the legislative and judicial branches to make spending reductions to meet the constitutional requirement of balancing the state budget.

Minton said most of the money problems come from personnel costs and building new courthouses.

The state courts employ 3,700 people and have an annual budget of $293 million.