THE ROBING ROOM

As an observer in his Court, this judge frightened me. I saw that 'image' was extremely important to him. He was overly concerned that everyone in the court room find his credentials distinguished and believe his decisions to be based on correct interpretation of the law, coupled with a sense of even-handed, fair application. He chose his words carefully to construct this image, but every now and then, sharp insight came when he'd slip and his words would reveal his inclinations were more harsh, perhaps, than he wanted others to sense. Not too far into the trial, I was jolted by the realization he had made up his mind about the defendant's guilt well before the trial ever began. His acidic comments to defense attorneys and defendants were highly inappropriate. Several times, this judge characterized the defendant in terms that surely must have prejudiced the jury. I'll never understand why the defense didn't object. My sense of it is that he's a prideful judge, arrogant and self-righteous. That's what frightened me most.