Program to address best practices for protecting judges

Three judges and a security expert will discuss the best ways to protect judges and court employees at a webinar on Thursday, June 16, sponsored by the American Bar Association Judicial Division.

The program, “From Grievance to Attack: A Discussion on Judicial Security and Best Practices for Safety,” comes as attacks and threats against judges in the United States are rising. In fiscal 2021, the U.S. Marshals Service investigated more than 1,300 threats against judges and court personnel. The number tripled in the past two years, according to the Marshals Service’s 2021 annual report.

The program will begin at 1 p.m.

Panelists will use personal stories to highlight the nature of threats, warning signs and actions taken. Experts will discuss protective strategies and supporting academic research. Speakers will include:

• Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown of the U.S. District Court in New Orleans.

• Judge Karen Khalil of the 17th District Court in Redford Township, Michigan.

• John Muffler, principal of Aequitas Global Security in Tampa, Florida.

• Judge Linda Bell of the state District Court in Clark County, Nevada, will moderate the discussion.

Cost for the webinar is $75 for non-members, $50 for ABA members, and $25 for section members. Lawyers and judges can register online at www.americanbar.org/events-cle/mtg/web/423301173.