by Liz Daube
Staff Writer
A panel of judges shared advice and swapped stories at the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association annual judicial panel Tuesday.
The judges offered their thoughts on a variety of topics, from professional behavior tips for young attorneys to their funniest moments on the bench.
“Introduce yourself,” said Circuit Court Judge Jack Schemer. “A lot of lawyers don’t, and I think it’s important. And I don’t know if it’s age or what, but I can’t remember anyone’s name. So for me, do it again.”
Circuit Court Judge Jean Johnson told first-time trial lawyers to keep knowledge of their inexperience to themselves – in most cases.
“If this is your first trial, don’t tell us,” said Johnson. “The opposing counsel’s eyes light up. If you throw up on the table or something, after that, you can tell the judge, ‘This is my first trial.’ ”
County Court Judge Pauline Drayton said attorneys should always try to learn about a judge’s preferences for timeliness, procedure and appearance.
“When I started as a prosecuting attorney in 1985, it was unheard of to wear pants,” said Drayton, explaining that expectations vary.
She added that showing off in front of a client isn’t a wise choice.
“Believe it or not, we are not idiots. I’ve seen people outside say, ‘That judge doesn’t know the law.’ Don’t say that,” she said.
As the panel wrapped up, Schemer told the group about how school children used to tour his courtroom. He said he would ask them questions to test their knowledge, and he occasionally got an unexpected response.
“I asked them, ‘Does anyone know what a prosecutor does?’ ” said Schemer. “This little boy – he was the only one who knew – he stood up and said, ‘They have sex for money.’ And the public defenders were shaking (their heads yes).”
The meeting also gave JWLA members a chance to confirm their 2006-2007 board members. Among other titles, Patty Dodson will be president and Susan Haag will serve as president-elect.