NCJ Number
172986
Journal
Judicature Volume: 81 Issue: 1 Dated: July-August 1997 Pages: 8-14
Date Published
1997
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Thirty-four published reports of State task forces on gender bias in the courts were analyzed with respect to court administration and human resource management issues related to organizational culture and sex discrimination.
Abstract
The task forces were established by State supreme courts, judicial councils, and bar associations. They were requested to examine and document the existence of gender bias in the courts and to recommend ways to eliminate it. The studies varied in scope and methodology. Nevertheless, taken together, the findings convincingly establish the pervasiveness of gender bias in the courtroom, under the law, in the legal profession, and in court personnel administration. Courts have a decidedly masculine organizational culture and gender ethos. The analysis also revealed widespread occupational segregation and pay inequities, the presence of sexual harassment and sex discrimination, and a weak commitment to affirmative action principles. Further problems included benefits packages that are insensitive to women and families and a prevalence of antiquated, unsophisticated personnel systems. The reports contained numerous recommendations for eliminating gender bias through actions by judges, court administrators, attorneys, other court personnel, and legislatures. Most recommendations focused on the need for training and education on the many dimensions of gender bias and on establishing and changing personnel policies so that gender bias is discouraged or made illegal. The reports have had an impact in that policy and program changes have occurred, and 11 States have published follow-up studies. However, continued progress is needed in reducing and eliminating gender bias.