THE ROBING ROOM

Tried a bench trial before him against the United States and he produced a very evenhanded and thoughtful Opinion and Order. He has a good understanding of the rules of evidence and keeps excellent control of his courtroom. He is courteous and respectful to lawyers, yet firm and decisive in his rulings. Conservative in criminal matters, he often seems to side with the government, but has been known to issue a strong ruling against the prosecution if he perceives an abuse of power.