How does one become a judge? How are cases decided? How do judges assess the truthfulness of witnesses? What is it really like to be a judge? In Madam Justice, Judge Suzanne Handman offers a candid and insightful exploration of life on the Bench, answering the questions she was most often asked during her career. Drawing from her own journey to the Bench, Handman takes readers behind the scenes, revealing the challenges of presiding over everything from Small Claims Court to complex legal cases.

The book offers a unique glimpse into the justice system, highlighting both compelling and challenging cases Handman encountered. It also explores broader issues such as access to justice, the limits on judges’ personal lives, and their ethical responsibilities. Additionally, it uncovers the inner workings of the court, touching on closed hearings for mental health cases and the rare instances when judges face disciplinary action for ethical breaches.

Written in an engaging, accessible style, Madam Justice provides readers a rare opportunity to understand the judicial process from the inside. It reveals how decisions are made, how judges assess witness credibility, and the often-overlooked aspects of the judicial system. This remarkable memoir demystifies the judicial process and deepens our understanding of the vital role judges play in upholding justice.

This insightful and engaging memoir presents a behind-the-scenes look at the justice system, revealing the life and work of a judge both in and out of the courtroom.

Acknowledgments

Introduction
1. The Beginning
2. Becoming a Judge
3. The Quebec Labour Court
4. Off the Deep End into the Court of Quebec
5. My Life as a Judge: In Court
6. Important Cases, Lawyers, and Litigants
7. Communication
8. Finding Support
9. My Life as a Judge: Outside of Court
10. Credibility
11. Finding Fairness
12. Access to Justice
13. Small Claims Court
14. Judging Judges
15. Sexism, Discrimination, and Change
16. The Emotional Cost of Law
17. The Road to Mediation and Resolving Conflicts
18. The End of a Career

Index
About the Author