The NPR Politics Podcast Federal Judges Aren't Subject To Workplace Harassment Laws
May 2, 2024
Tom Dreisbach, NPR's investigations correspondent known for his focus on ethics, joins the discussion on alarming gaps in workplace protections for federal judiciary employees. The podcast reveals how numerous judges failed to disclose lavish, privately-funded trips, raising ethical concerns. It also dives into the troubling climate of bullying faced by law clerks, complicating efforts to report misconduct. Furthermore, the conversation addresses declining public trust in the judicial system and the need for reforms to enhance transparency and accountability.
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Judges Above the Law?
- Federal judges aren't subject to the same workplace discrimination laws as other U.S. workers.
- This lack of protection can foster hostile work environments, as few employees report harassment due to fear of retaliation.
The Power of Clerkships
- Law clerks, often recent graduates, work very closely with judges, creating a significant power imbalance.
- Clerkships are highly valued, potentially leading to lucrative Supreme Court clerkships and large bonuses.
Advocating for Clerks
- Elisa Schatzman advocates for law clerk transparency and experienced hostile treatment herself.
- Bullying and hostile work environments appear more common than sexual harassment in the judiciary.