Noteworthy

The Steering Committee on Diversity and Inclusion is constantly working to improve the court system for all people. Often, the work is not at the forefront of the media. This page provides backstories and updates on the day-to-day work of the Judicial Branch as we make diversity and inclusion a deeply embedded component of our culture. We also highlight our work that’s closely related to diversity and inclusion, and we call these initiatives Going Beyond Diversity & Inclusion.

Demographics and Workplace Policies

Launched Branch-wide Professional Development Days

Steering Committee members understand that training is crucial to a solid diversity and inclusion strategy. To ensure everyone receives training, the Judicial Branch has set aside four hours each month for judges and staff in our trial courts to engage in professional development.

Courts and the Information Center now open at 10:00 am on the first and third Wednesday of every month. No courtroom activity, such as trials and hearings, is scheduled during this time. Our regular off-hours services are available, including electronic filing and law enforcement access to an on-call judge for the processing of warrants. Dedicating time to training demonstrates responsiveness to staff needs. It recognizes that creating a more diverse, inclusive, and welcoming culture requires dedicated time for education and coaching. Formalizing Professional Development Days turn strategy and intent into action.

Training & Pipeline Diversity

Improving Diversity through Internships

Serving as a legal intern in the Judicial Branch can be a valuable opportunity for future legal professionals can lead to fulfilling career opportunities. Proactively reaching out to a diverse applicant pool supports the Committee’s objective to diversify the workforce. Standardizing the law student summer intern application to make the process more equitable and accessible is another example of moving from intent to action. 

Data Collection

Using Data to Make Decisions

This subcommittee is conducting data research with National Center for State Courts and the Diversity and Inclusion Advisory Board to uncover disparate impact and prejudice, in any form, with court processes, policies, and procedures. This multi-year effort endeavors to identify accurate data to answer core questions such as “What are the important demographic characteristics of court users?”. Findings will be shared with court leadership and others as the basis for policy, process, and procedure decision-making.