Effects of Emotional Intelligence and Decision- Making in the Judicial and Management Staff of the High Court of Nigeria

The intersection of emotional intelligence and decision-making plays a significant role in the judicial and management staff of the High Court of Nigeria. Emotional intelligence, which encompasses the ability to understand, use, and manage emotions effectively, is crucial in professions that require high-stakes decision-making, such as those within the judicial system. The ability of judges and court management staff to navigate their own emotions and those of others directly impacts the quality of their decisions, their interpersonal relationships, and ultimately, justice delivery. The objectives of the study are to outline the Strategies for Enhancing Emotional Intelligence in the Nigerian Judiciary; to examine the Challenges and Barriers of Implementing Emotional Intelligence in the Judiciary; to evaluate the Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Judicial Outcomes; and to explore the Successful integration of Emotional Intelligence into Judicial Training Programs. The study is a qualitative research, which involved an intensive search of academic databases and peer-reviewed journals, among other academic materials, to produce substantial content on the research topic. The literature review included 150 academic papers that were selected by professionals after a careful evaluation of scholarly journals and other authoritative sources. The research study indicates that high emotional intelligence among judicial staff often correlates with better decision- making. Judicial roles demand critical thinking and impartiality, particularly in high-pressure situations. For example, judges who can regulate their emotions tend to remain calm and focused during tense trials, which can lead to more reasoned verdicts. Conversely, a lack of emotional intelligence can result in biased decisions, as unregulated emotions may cloud judgment. This is particularly relevant in cases involving sensitive issues, where emotional responses can skew the fairness of proceedings. Moreover, the integration of emotional intelligence training into professional development for judicial staff can yield positive outcomes. Programs aimed at enhancing emotional skills can equip judges and management staff with tools to better cope with their roles, leading to improved decision-making processes. Recent initiatives in various Nigerian states have started to incorporate training focused on emotional intelligence, reflecting a growing recognition of its importance in the legal field. The study concludes that the effects of emotional intelligence on decision-making within the High Court of Nigeria are profound. By understanding and effectively managing emotions, judicial and management staff can enhance their interpersonal relationships, promote fairer outcomes, and improve the overall efficiency of the justice system. As the legal landscape continues to evolve, prioritising emotional intelligence could be a key strategy in addressing challenges faced by the judiciary, ultimately fostering a more effective and equitable legal environment for all.