Compassion in the Court

Life-Changing Stories from America's Nicest Judge

By: Judge Frank Caprio

Narrated by: Rob Reider

In his four-time Emmy-nominated show Caught in Providence, Judge Frank Caprio’s courtroom became a worldwide beacon of compassionate justice—and an unforgettable watch for millions of fans.

Now, Judge Caprio, known as “the Nicest Judge in the World,” brings to the page the same wisdom and spirit of decency that viewers around the world have come to treasure.

From 1985, when he first took the bench, to when he stepped down in 2023, Judge Caprio dispensed true compassion to a continuous flow of regular people in his municipal traffic court in Providence, Rhode Island. His courtroom was a place where defendants were treated with dignity, and where the deserving were given a break—not a pass or get-out-of-jail-free card, but the chance to right their lives and care for their families.

In Compassion in the Court, Judge Caprio shares transformative stories and lessons from his life and courtroom, including:

• Wisdom he gained from his immigrant parents
• Stories shared by individuals of all ages who appeared in court
• How he developed the ability to tell when someone is not telling the truth
• The power of growing up with someone who believed in him—and how he’s tried to provide the same for everyone who appeared before him
• How a person’s worth isn’t measured by the mistakes they make, but by their ability to learn from those mistakes

Judge Caprio’s memories will challenge readers to become somebody—to value their past and their family, to confront their realities, and to believe that, through respect, compassion, and understanding, they can succeed. This book will touch your heart, uplift your spirit, and renew your faith in others and in yourself.

©2025 Frank Caprio. (P)2024 Brilliance Publishing, Inc., all rights reserved.

Critic reviews

“With a smooth voice and a steady pace, narrator Rob Reider introduces listeners to Judge Frank Caprio.… Reider captures the cadence of Caprio's voice and his slow, deliberate speech.… Caprio listened to people intently, and Reider re-creates that intensity in dialogue from the courtroom. It is a compelling technique that shows Reider's skill and understanding of Caprio's concern for each person who stood before him.”—AudioFile Magazine

The Compassion for others

I loved this book. Mr. Caprio’s compassion and integrity shine bright in this book. He is an inspiration to everyone that kindness goes a long way.

Timeless and treasured lessons that we should all take to heart.

This describes a life well lived and well loved. Judge Caprio provides lessons for us all and humbles us with his wisdom..

Amazing

Judge Caprio is one in a million. Everyone and I mean everyone, rich or poor need to read this book. It should be a requirement in high school. Such great lessons given here. Kindness is free and we all need to be more kind, respectful and understanding to each other. Thank you Judge Caprio, this book will forever be my favorite.

The world would be a better place if we all took a page from Judge Caprio's book and applied it in our own lives.

Judge Caprio was the commencement speaker at my niece's graduation from Providence College this year. His speech was phenomenal! It really resonated with me. The book was even better. It touched my soul. A MUST read. Thank you Judge Caprio for sharing your words with the world.

humanity needs more

The kindness of the blessed Judge Frank Caprio ✨️ 🙏 ❤️ needs more to the world 🌎 🙏