Witnesses praise Judge Jarmon’s courtroom compassion and accommodations for families

Michelle Tatum, who identified herself as involved with multiple nonprofits, described appearing before Judge Jarmon for a name‑change proceeding and said the judge’s gesture of coming down from the bench and offering a hug made a lasting impression that helped motivate her to pursue law school. Tatum said the judge’s courtroom includes small accommodations such as snacks and a play area to ease the experience for people who may have missed a meal or brought children to court.

"When I stepped into her courtroom, I felt like she actually cared. Her coming down from the bench and giving me a hug, I've never had a hug from a judge before," Tatum said. She also said that, as someone who was a homeless youth and a mother of seven, she appreciated how such small accommodations reflect a broader commitment to serving the community rather than simply imposing punishment.