At Rumpole's request I am posting this tribute to Judge Gladstone as written by the Trial Master:
Many years(decades) ago I was retained to represent a lawyers son who got arrested for trafficking in marijuana in a larger amount that was stored in a vacant house near Palmetto High School. The son was accepted at an ivy league school for college. Although standing was a real concern as well as the rest of the motion to suppress Judge Gladstone granted the motion probably because he realized the vast harm a conviction would carry with this otherwise outstanding student. I believe based on his reputation of looking out for the juveniles he did what he thought was best for the child, not withstanding the harsh law. He was a great Judge and his likes will not be seen again for a very long time, if ever. New Judges assigned to Juvenile rotate out as soon as they can for greener pastures. But Judge Gladstone stayed out of devotion and care.
ReplyDeleteAnyone that watched the Seahawks game tonight, that's all you had to see to see the philosophical difference between The Fins and the Hawks. This has nothing to do with personnel. Nothing to do with talent. When Cam Chancellor punched that ball out of Megatrons hands, he changed the outcome of the game. Any of the Fins players have the physical capability of making the same play. But not this team. Not the way they play on the field. Same thing when the Hawks had third down and two on that final series. Did they run the ball. Hell no. They threw it downfield. No way the Fins coaching staff ever makes that call. Ever. Seahwaks played to win. Fins coaches always playing not to lose.
Maybe the philosophy will change with the new coach. Only time will tell.
1. That could not be any more poorly written.
ReplyDelete2. Gladstone was the real deal.
3. If it was a poor black kid, or a latin, or a white kid with no college admission and instead a life of labor ahead, the piece is clear that Gladstone, well intentioned as he was, would have denied the motion. The good old days aren't always good.
Just sayin'
I was the first prosecutor to practice before Judge Gladstone in February of 1973. It was in old Beckham Hall before the "new" "old" juvenile justice center was built. It was one of the most pleasant experiences I've had with any judge. He was a gentleman with a great heart. As a novice prosecutor, I didn't always agree with his rulings, but there was never a doubt in my mind that he always believed he was doing the right thing. He had a real passion for helping the kids that came through the court system. He wanted to affect their lives in a positive way and help turn things around for them. He could gut one of my cases and leave me feeling that justice had been done (which is not easy when you are young and don't see the other side as readily.) He never embarrassed the young lawyers who practiced before him when they made mistakes. He had a gentle wit and wonderful demeanor.
ReplyDeleteI could go on, but you should have the picture by now. I have always been grateful that he was the first judge I practiced before. He set a great standard. Judge Gladstone was a good human being and I'm sorry he is gone. My sympathies to his friends and family.
The Ren (a venue) would gladly offer itself to host a memorial service to Judge Gladstone. Wednesday nights are no cover charge, 2 for 1 drinks. DJ Dario playing all your Latin favorites. Plus the super hot bartender will be there wearing the famous shorts and belly shirt.
ReplyDeleteI was assigned to Judge Gladstone too. He was one of the finest people I ever met. He really cared about kids and treated everyone well.
ReplyDeletePlease SHUT UP with the stupid Ren crap. Thought that the blog improved immeasurably when the Shumie posts stopped... but Ren may be even more idiotic.
ReplyDeleteWho is still alive Rumpole in the "B" football pool? Please elaborate. ....
ReplyDelete