by Caroline Gabsewics
Staff Writer
Members of the Jacksonville Women Lawyers Association got to know eight judges a little better at the association’s annual judicial panel luncheon on April 11.
Patty Dodson, president of JWLA, said this judicial panel marked a special occasion, because it was the first time they had a panel made up of all women.
Even though there wasn’t enough time to get to every question, the judges offered advice and shared stories about how they got to where they are today.
The first question asked was how they each balance their legal careers with family, personal, civic and church commitments. A few of them credited their husbands for being supportive throughout their career and others found it within themselves to make it through the tougher times in their lives.
“At my age I have come to realize that I had to sacrifice things to get where I am. Women in the legal profession have special challenges and we cannot do everything,” said County Court Judge Pauline Drayton. “Choices have to be made and we can’t do everything well.
“You can’t have everything and always remember what is really important.”
Magistrate Judge Leatrice Walton said 10 years ago her mother passed away leaving her alone with two kids and yet she worked her way up the ranks by first holding a job at Jacksonville Area Legal Aide.
U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard said she gets up every morning and does what she has to do.
“I love my family and my job, and there are bad days, but I wouldn’t change anything,” she said.
Some of the judges also gave some pointers for women lawyers to follow.
Drayton told the attorneys not to whine when they are in court.
“Don’t whine,” she said. “You’re there, you’re intelligent and you have worked very hard. Just be confident.”
Magistrate Judge Denise DeLorenzo added that attorneys loose credibility if they whine or cry in court.
U.S. District Court Judge Virginia Covington said if any attorneys are planning to work for the government, it is important that they find a mentor to show them the ropes.
Attorneys shouldn’t be afraid to call another attorney, whether they know them or not, to ask them questions, said Walton.
“Seasoned attorneys are your best sources,” she said.
The annual Judicial Reception themed “The Lifestyles of the Robed and Famous” is at the Hyatt on June 19.