Since the tragic murders of a judge, court reporter, and court service officer at the Fulton County Superior Courthouse in Atlanta, Georgia, on March 11, 2005, deadly shootings and serious security incidents continue to plague our nation’s courts. Each one serves as a painful reminder that judges and court staff are at risk and at all times should be aware of their environment, take safety precautions, and use security procedures. These safety tips are useful reminders for personal safety.
Even though reports indicate that judges and other judicial branch personnel are more likely to be injured in a fall at home or in an automobile accident than in a work-related assault, increased violence in recent years has resulted in three judges being murdered at home. These deaths were directly connected to cases over which they presided. The home security audit that follows is designed to identify security risks and provide judges and other judicial branch personnel with basic personal security recommendations that can be used to protect them and their homes.