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Trial Court Chief Justice Paula M. Carey issued the following statement to Massachusetts bar leaders on Feb. 17:

The SJC Standing Committee on Lawyer Well-Being - Affinity Bar Town Hall Report issued on February 4, 2021, is a Call to Action for the Massachusetts Trial Court. We cannot be satisfied with a justice system that is perceived by even some of its users or employees as allowing an atmosphere that is hostile to its mission of equal, fair and impartial justice for all. I hope you will share this message with your colleagues and members. 
 
Our work in the area of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is an ongoing and continuous commitment. We will persist in our efforts, reinforce past lessons and look for new ways to sustain this mission of equal justice for all. 
 
The Trial Court has a broad policy prohibiting discrimination, harassment and retaliation, linked here. This policy protects all employees, as well as all court users, including attorneys, litigants and visitors to the courts. The Trial Court diligently seeks to enforce that policy strictly and promptly to address violations of it. 

To ensure that misconduct is appropriately addressed, mitigated and prevented from recurring, the Trial Court set up a Hotline: 617-878-0411, as well as an email box: fairandequitablejusticeforall@jud.state.ma.us. Anyone who believes they or someone they know has been treated in a manner that is disrespectful, hostile or harassing is encouraged to reach out and report such experiences. 
 
We must also work to promote an environment that appreciates, understands and respects diversity, equity and inclusion, both internally and externally. In a society where institutional racism, disparities in health, and access to justice are part of the public discourse on a daily basis, it is imperative that the Massachusetts Trial Court is unequivocal in its commitment to equal justice and to supporting everyone to bring their best and true selves to the court.

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