by Max Marbut
Staff Writer
As a rule, the investiture of a judge in the Fourth Judicial Circuit is part solemn ceremony and part celebrity roast.
That was the case Thursday in Courtroom 4 at the Duval County Courthouse when Circuit Court Judge Don Lester was ceremonially sworn in and enrobed.
Chief Judge Donald Moran opened the proceedings by pointing out that Lester has been serving since March. “He’s comfortable with the job,” he said.
Lester’s former law partner, Scott Mitchell, regaled the court with stories about how Lester changed during their friendship and colleagueship. He said Lester has gone from expensive suits to T-shirts and jeans and from a BMW to a pickup truck with mud flaps.
“He’ll be motivated by the desire to do what’s right,” said Mitchell. “He’ll never forget where he came from.”
Circuit Court Judge Hugh Carithers Jr. welcomed Lester to the bench by relating what he called the “Seven Traits of a Judge.” Those traits were patience, open-mindedness, understanding, firmness, courtesy and tact, compassion and humility.
“I am confident he will be a great judge,” said Carithers.
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