Creating a Person-Centered Courtroom

A Trauma-Informed Checklist for Judges Committed to Real Justice

If you’re ready to move beyond tradition and lead with empathy, this resource is for you.

The Person-Centered Courtroom Checklist is a concise, trauma-informed guide designed for judicial professionals who want to make their courtrooms safer, more effective, and more equitable.

It’s a practical tool to help you recognize trauma responses, reduce retraumatization, and bring human-centered leadership to the bench.

Inside, You’ll Learn How To:

✔️ Regulate your own nervous system to activate executive functioning

✔️ Create safety through intentional body language, tone, and courtroom structure

✔️ Recognize common trauma triggers and physical signs of distress

✔️ Respond to trauma behaviors with calm, flexible leadership

✔️ Commit to continuous learning in trauma, equity, and institutional harm

This two-page, quick-reference resource gives you the clarity and tools to lead with presence and compassion — without losing the authority of the bench.

It’s for any judge who believes the justice system should serve all people, including those impacted by trauma.

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