Demonstrating Respect, Neutrality and Fairness

Conduct on the Bench

• Be alert to how your words and/or behavior are received by listeners.
• Be aware that non-verbal communication is also important.
• Consider giving brief remarks about your role and intention to demonstrate respect, neutrality, and fairness to all involved. This should include court reporters and court interpreters, among others.

Court Staff Behavior

• Be conscious of the diversity among court staff.
• Be aware that different ideas and values enhance the management and direction of a court.
• Understand that cultural differences and customs can underlie behaviors. Appreciation of those differences and customs can be a powerful safeguard against costly misunderstandings, employee dissatisfaction, and turnover.

The Courtroom Environment

• Provide signs in languages appropriate to the users of the court.
• Displays reflecting the ethnic and cultural diversity in your particular community are helpful in reducing anxiety about being in an otherwise unfamiliar setting.