Transcript Slide 1

ENHANCING PROCEDURAL
FAIRNESS
THE ROLE OF PROCEDURAL FAIRNESS
AND COMMUNICATION
Key Components of
Procedural Fairness
Participants:
 Have a voice
 Perceive that the court system is
neutral
 Understand the process and what is
expected of them;
 Are treated with respect
“The single greatest problem in
communication is the illusion
that it has been accomplished.”
George Bernard Shaw
Lost in Translation
What is Communication?
Communication is any behavior
that people assign meaning to.
Plain English
 Ensure grade-level appropriateness of
language
 Simplify legal jargon by eliminating
legalese
 Make the courtroom user-friendly for
everyone
 The UK has already rewritten its Rules of
Civil Procedure and Tax laws in plain
english
Oral Communication
 Speak clearly and slowly
 Explain expectations of compliance
and the consequences of noncompliance
 Reinforce oral communication with a
written order/reminder whenever
possible
A Trip to the Emergency Room
Written Communication
 Explain legal terms
 List the steps necessary to comply
with the order
 Explain consequences for noncompliance
 Give contact information for
additional resources
Enhancing Procedural
Fairness
3 Macro Strategies:
Give people a chance to tell their story
Explain procedures, reasons for decisions,
and the decision-making process to
convey neutrality and ensure
understanding
Treat each party respectfully
What’s in it for me?
Increased public trust and
confidence
Improved staff satisfaction
Increased compliance with court
orders and reduced violations,
revocations, and bench warrants
Decreased recidivism