The PD turned to Judge Morphonious and asked her if she heard what the prosecutor just said to him?
And Judge Morphonious replied: "Yes. He forgot to say 'and the horse you rode in on'. "
Such were the fun days in the REGJB, when a little release of stress didn't lead to bar complaints, human resource investigations and discipline, and anger management classes. We know who both the lawyers are, they can reveal themselves in the comments section if they wish, and both have gone on to distinguished careers.
All of this is a prelude to the Miami Herald article hear about Judge Jacqueline Schwartz who allegedly told employees of a convenience store that was displaying a large sign for one of her opponents in the last election (she had two, one is remaining in a run-off) to "go fuck yourself" after they refused to remove the sign.
Campaigns are a tough business. All politics is local, and nothing is personal: "It's not personal Tom. It's strictly business." Michael Corleone to Tom, after he removed his brother as consigliere to the family.
Say what you want about judicial temperament, and Judge Schwartz has her share of complaints about her performance as a county court judge, but she wasn't wearing robes when she said this. Admittedly she was verbally abusing a few powerless clerks since the owner of the building had put up the sign and they had no authority to take it down, but there is something old-school about this incident.
Courts are closed today as members of the Jewish faith begin ten days of introspection and reflection culminating in the day of atonement when they make amends for their shortcomings for the prior year. It's an excellent time for people to seek out those they have hurt or insulted (or wrongfully cursed at) and seek forgiveness. Of course, we lead an exemplarily life and such pedestrian concerns are beneath us. But for the rest of you, get your house in order for a new year.
See You In Court.