“Minority litigants complained of unequal dispositions of cases in criminal, family, and civil courts, based upon their racial and ethnic identity.”
“Gender bias is manifested in spoken words, in the demeanor of male judges and attorneys, and in the application of different standards and requirements for male and female attorneys.”
“Gender bias is both overt and subtle. When subtle, it is often difficult to link to outcomes. As a result, it can be difficult to demonstrate the effects of gender bias in an individual case.”
“Economic status and class intersects with gender and race, has a significant effect on a litigant’s courtroom experience, and can affect the outcome of a case.”
“Under current procedures for making complaints of bias, many attorneys and court personnel believe the risks—to their own careers and if attorneys, to their clients—prevent them from coming forward.”