Research Assistance for Judges

In addition to an annotated database of legal resources, the Avon Global Center accepts requests from judges around the world to conduct pro bono legal research on issues relating to gender justice.  Such requests may support a judge's adjudication of a case, development of courtroom procedures, or activities outside of the courtroom.  Requests are treated as presumptively confidential, and a judge is welcome to make a request without divulging the details of any confidential matter it may implicate.  Research may include drafting legal research memoranda; providing referrals to reports, articles, case law, or other resources; preparing training materials or other guides to raise awareness of gender justice issues; and in some cases, engaging in longer-term projects to support gender justice initiatives.  The Center's recent responses to judicial requests have focused on, among other things:

• Integrated domestic violence courts in New York State, to inform the development of various court innovations in Ghana;
• Providing interactive materials for a training of judges and prosecutors on trafficking cases in Kenya;
• Barriers to justice for women in New York State who are survivors of domestic violence and become criminal defendants for reasons relating to their abuse;
• Public interest litigation and class actions as a way to expand access to justice for women and all people;
• Resources relating to the effects of polygamy;
• Exploitation of child domestic workers in Bangladesh; and
• Use of restorative justice approaches in domestic violence cases.

For examples of memoranda prepared in response to judicial requests, please click here.

To submit a request for legal research assistance, please send us an email.

Once a judge submits a request, a Center staff member will contact her or him to confirm whether we can handle the request and to set a timeline for delivery of the work-product. 

Judges may also register here to receive periodic updates from the Avon Global Center regarding significant developments, publications, events and workshops focused on gender-based violence.

Not a judge? Register here.