Listening With Intention: A Spotlight Q&A With Chief Justice Cheri Beasley (Ret.)

Can you share a defining moment that shaped your values as a neutral?

There have been many, but one that stands out was a case involving two pro se neighbors with a long-standing dispute. It wasn’t legally complex, but what they needed most was to be heard. When we slowed down and allowed space for dialogue, they were able to resolve their issues as people — not just parties. That experience, along with my time in the Public Defender’s Office, underscored the importance of listening, valuing human dignity, and being attentive to both words and body language in resolving disputes.

How did your leadership as Chief Justice influence your work as a neutral?

As Chief Justice of North Carolina, I oversaw a unified court system serving the ninth-largest state. I prioritized modernizing technology and expanding access to justice — especially for the 56% of litigants who came to court without lawyers. Ensuring people had ownership and confidence in the process is a lesson I carry into ADR, where it is vital for parties to feel heard, respected, and comfortable with the process.

You’ve served across a wide spectrum of legal roles. How does that breadth of experience shape your perspective today?

From public defense to commercial litigation, to serving on trial, appellate, and supreme courts, I’ve had exposure to a broad range of cases. On the appellate bench, I handled every kind of case imaginable, and as a trial court judge I presided over family, juvenile, criminal, and civil cases. In private practice, I focused more on commercial and employment litigation. That experience allows me to relate to diverse issues and assure parties that I understand their matters and will work hard to grasp the details.

What types of matters do you find most rewarding?

When I’m on a case, it’s less about the subject matter and more about the preparation and approach that I find rewarding. I value when attorneys prepare their clients well, set realistic expectations, and present thoughtful, well-prepared cases. At the same time, I never lose sight that these matters deeply affect people’s lives. Even complex commercial disputes can put someone’s future on hold, and I approach each case with that level of importance.

Of all your roles, which has been your favorite, and why?

Each role has been meaningful to me, but serving as an assistant public defender was unexpectedly transformative. It taught me humility, compassion, and the universal truth that everyone shares the same hopes and dreams for their families and communities. That experience shaped not only my career, but also who I am as a person, judge, wife, and mother.

How do you think attorneys would describe your approach and demeanor?

I’ve been told I have a good temperament, and I strive to ensure my findings are thorough and thoughtful. My goal has always been to guide cases with fairness, clarity, and respect — allowing lawyers and parties to navigate their own matters while knowing the process is sound.

What values guide you most as a neutral?

Listening with intention, respecting the human spirit, and enabling parties to have ownership in the process. I believe in fostering trust and confidence so that parties leave knowing they’ve been heard and that the resolution is fair and workable for everyone involved.

What causes or passions outside of work are most meaningful to you?

I’m deeply committed to addressing hunger. In North Carolina, even before the pandemic, one in five children went hungry; during the pandemic, it rose to one in three. Supporting solutions to that challenge is a priority for me.

What do you enjoy personally when you’re not working?

I love the outdoors — biking, reading, traveling, and spending time with family and friends. I ride many miles each week on our beautiful North Carolina trails, and I especially treasure time with my husband, our twin sons, and our extended family.