The Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice (ATJ Commission) continues its commitment to fostering dignity, respect, and equitable treatment for all court users. To support this mission, the Commission is reviewing newly developed Gender Inclusive Bench Cards, which provide practical guidance for judges and court personnel on engaging respectfully with transgender individuals in the courtroom.
Why gender inclusivity matters in courtrooms
Transgender individuals are present in every Illinois community -- as court users, attorneys, clerks, and even judges. However, studies reveal that transgender people frequently face discrimination and misgendering in court settings, eroding public trust in the legal system. According to a 2022 report from Lambda Legal, more than half of transgender, gender-nonconforming, and nonbinary individuals with courtroom experience reported being misgendered by court staff. This mistreatment contributes to a broader perception that courts are not safe or accessible spaces for all.
The National Center for State Courts also emphasizes the impact of language, stating that using gender-inclusive terminology measurably improves individuals’ interactions with the court and enhances public confidence in the judiciary.
What the new bench cards offer
The Gender Inclusive Bench Cards provide two key resources for judges and court staff:
- Transgender People at Court – This guide outlines judicial obligations and offers actionable steps for ensuring transgender court users are treated with dignity and respect. It includes guidance on appropriate interactions and examples of how to navigate gender identity considerations in court settings.
- How to Promote Gender Inclusivity – This resource highlights best practices for using inclusive language, such as the correct use of pronouns, strategies for addressing mistakes, and how to ensure court communications — including signage, forms, and instructions — are gender-inclusive.
These bench cards align with the ATJ Commission’s 2023-2028 Strategic Plan, which envisions a more accessible and equitable court system. The plan specifically calls for initiatives that ensure all court users feel welcomed and respected and that court communications use clear, inclusive, and person-centered language.
A step toward a more inclusive court system
The ATJ Commission would like to acknowledge the work of its Gender Inclusivity Subcommittee of the Community Trust Committee. This Subcommittee collaborated with various stakeholders to develop these resources, including the Pride Action Tank of Chicago, the Illinois Supreme Court Committee on Equal Justice, and the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts.
To explore the work of the ATJ Commission further, please visit www.atjil.org.