Driven. Innovative. Inspiring.
These are a few of the words used to describe Judge Victoria Pratt who has gained national and international acclaim for her commitment to reforming the criminal justice system. Renowned for her trailblazing approach to justice, Judge Pratt has transformed countless lives with dignity and respect at the heart of her courtroom. As a former Chief Judge of Newark Municipal Court, she pioneered an innovative approach and programs that have inspired jurisdictions across the United States.
Judge Pratt’s influence reaches far and wide. A fierce advocate committed to reform, Pratt has worked with jurisdictions across the nation, and as far as Ukraine, England, Trinidad and Tobago, Dubai, Scotland, Lithuania and Mexico. In that role she facilitates workshops and presentations on alternative sentencing for juveniles and adults, as well as trainings in procedural justice.
Her viral TED Talk, “How Judges Can Show Respect,” has been translated into 16 languages and the Facebook clip of this powerful talk has received over 37 million views and voted one of the top 15 Most Motivational and Inspirational TED talks on Facebook by Disrupt magazine. Her critically acclaimed book, The Power of Dignity: How Transforming Justice Can Heal Our Communities, published by Seal Press-Hachette Publishing, delves deeper into her philosophy and the transformative power of respect in the justice system.
She is a guest opinion columnist for MSNBC.com and has addressed international delegates at the United Nations. Her expertise has also been featured in prominent media outlets, including The Guardian, MSNBC’s Melissa Harris-Perry Show, The Tamron Hall Show, NPR’s Fresh Air with Terry Gross, as well as the award-winning PBS series “Due Process.”
Judge Pratt is also the founder of Pratt Lucien Consultants, where she brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to organizations seeking transformative change. Licensed to practice in New Jersey and New York(ret.), and admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court, Judge Pratt, also continues to impact lives through her Mountain Mover empowerment sessions, helping individuals achieve their fullest potential. Connect with Judge Pratt.