Court can be ruff, but courthouse dogs can help alleviate anxiety to ease the judicial process. Meet Charlie, a Golden Doodle who works at the Jackson County Courthouse. Patti Clark, Director of Court Operations in the First Judicial Circuit, shares an overview of their therapy dog program and more on Charlie.
Tell us about the courthouse therapy dog program in the Jackson County Courthouse. How did it start and how does it work?
Charlie, our courthouse therapy dog, joined us in July 2024 through a grant awarded to the First Circuit. This grant covers expenses such as food, treats for both Charlie and his handler, and other supplies necessary to ensure Charlie’s comfort while he is onsite.
Charlie has become an integral part of our team, particularly in drug court, where he attends most sessions and provides a calming and supportive presence. His comforting nature also greatly benefits both children and adult witnesses during interviews and court appearances.
When Charlie’s presence is needed for a specific interview or court hearing, I coordinate directly with his handler to arrange the time and location. We also invite Charlie to greet our courthouse tour groups and special training sessions.
Tell us about Charlie (age, breed, etc.). How long has he worked with the court?
Charlie is a 7-year-old Golden Doodle, born on January 3, 2018. He is a certified therapy dog through the Alliance of Therapy Dogs and has been a beloved part of our team for the past year.
How would you describe Charlie’s daily job?
When Charlie arrives at the courthouse, he always comes a little early to make his rounds and greet the courthouse staff. He is a well-loved presence, and everyone looks forward to seeing him. After his greetings, Charlie’s handler takes him to his scheduled location to meet with a witness. Charlie sits quietly beside the witness for as long as needed, offering comfort and calm. Remarkably, he seems to have a natural ability to sense the emotional state of the person next to him. Throughout it all, his handler remains just a few feet away to ensure Charlie’s well-being and support.
How would you describe Charlie, both on the job and at home?
Charlie is a natural social butterfly. Unless he's focused on a specific person or task, he thrives on mingling — moving from person to person and soaking up the love. His presence has a calming effect on those around him, and people are naturally drawn to his gentle energy. Though I haven’t seen Charlie in his home environment, I’ve been told he’s just as well-mannered and affectionate there. He gets along wonderfully with the other dogs in his household and continues to show the same sweet, easy-going nature.
Who does Charlie primarily interact with?
Charlie has become an integral part of the courthouse environment, particularly within the drug court program and juvenile abuse and neglect cases. His consistent presence offers therapeutic support to participants navigating the justice system, many of whom face significant emotional and psychological stress. Charlie is familiar with the routines and individuals involved, and he intuitively engages with those who may benefit most from his calming influence. While he certainly has a few favorites — possibly due to treats — his role extends far beyond companionship. Charlie contributes to a more supportive and trauma-informed courtroom atmosphere, aligning with our goals of increasing engagement, reducing stress, and promoting successful outcomes in treatment court settings.
How do people generally respond to Charlie?
It’s all smiles when Charlie’s around! People naturally gather to soak in the good vibes — and, of course, to get a chance to pet this lovable ball of joy. Even those who claim not to be dog lovers can’t help but respond positively to him. Shy children, often hesitant to engage with others, happily reach out to connect with Charlie.
Can you share a time when Charlie made a particularly profound impact on someone visiting the courthouse?
When Charlie unexpectedly attended a young child’s adoption ceremony, what was already a joyous occasion became even more memorable. The entire family was overjoyed by Charlie’s presence, instantly inviting him into their celebration and photos. It felt as though Charlie was adopted alongside the child that day, adding an extra layer of warmth and happiness to the special moment.
What does Charlie do when he’s not working?
When Charlie is not working in the courthouse, he visits hospitals and nursing homes to comfort patients and their families.
Why do you think the courthouse therapy dog program is important?
Courts make life-changing decisions on a regular basis. For those of us who work within the system, it’s easy to become comfortable and familiar with the process. However, what we may take for granted is a vastly different experience for the individuals whose lives are profoundly impacted by these decisions. The anxiety of being in court — regardless of which side one is on — can quickly become overwhelming.
Court therapy dogs play an essential role in providing a calming presence and relieving tension for those involved. I firmly believe it is our duty to make the courthouse experience as safe and stress-free as possible for the public we serve. A calmer courtroom not only eases the emotional burden on individuals but also contributes to a more efficient process and enhances safety for court security personnel.
Anything else you’d like to share?
Jackson County encourages any court with the opportunity to participate in this valuable program to do so. The presence of therapy dogs can greatly reduce anxiety and stress, helping to create a more compassionate and effective environment for all parties involved.
For more information on the First Judicial Circuit’s Therapy Dog Program, click here.