Who inspired you to become a lawyer?
My father was a neurologist and was often called to testify in court as an expert witness in civil litigation. He was a brilliant man and disciplined. I watched him prepare for his testimony and listened as he would recount his courtroom experiences. He had a deep respect for the legal profession and that was passed on to me.
What inspires you?
Jacksonville has a rich history of great jurists who have been entrusted with the privilege to serve. I am so honored to join the ranks of the many wonderful and qualified judges who currently work for our community. I hope that I can live up to their legacy.
There is a certain weight of responsibility that can be felt when entering into a courtroom. It may be metaphysical. Litigants experience it when important legal questions that will impact their lives hang in the balance. Attorneys endure it as they navigate complicated legal arguments.
Now as a judge, I realize it is magnified when that black robe is put on. It is the requirement to follow the law, ensure that justice is done and ultimately do what is right.
How do you relate your undergraduate degree to your practice on the bench?
I graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in political science.
The football team tended to disappoint but my education certainly did not. The curriculum was rich in philosophy, history, and literature.
Also, the other students at the university were remarkably intelligent and the friendships I made further stimulated my intellectual curiosity.
As a judge, I carry that same desire to learn to the bench. I enjoy the banter of a good legal argument and I have found that there is so much wisdom to be gained from the attorneys, witnesses and courtroom staff.
What community service have you pursued and why?
I am a longtime member of Southpoint Community Church and I’m proud of the impact this organization has had through its various outreaches to different communities across our city. I also find my volunteer work with the City Rescue Mission to be quite rewarding.
What is your favorite book?
The Book of Proverbs is probably my most visited book. It doesn’t matter how many times I go back to it, there is another bit of wisdom I feel like I am finding for the first time.
But for fun, I am currently reading “The Way of Kings” series by Brandon Sanderson.
Also, I might be a little biased, but my brother, Douglas Dorsey, recently wrote the “Never Alone” book series which is delightful.
Do you have any special talents?
In my private time, when the doors are locked, I play piano (poorly). Also, my wife keeps hinting that we should take up pickleball together.
If you weren’t a judge what do you think you’d be?
I think it would be fun to be a sea captain, but based on the way I park my car, it’s probably for the best I don’t navigate a cruise ship.
Have you traveled anywhere exotic?
I have visited Mexico and Brazil. Both are beautiful places to visit but I found my trip to Israel to be the most meaningful.
If you could meet someone from history, who would it be and why?
George Washington had all the skills of a great leader. He was bold, decisive, and he inspired those around him. Yet his greatest quality was his humility. He didn’t allow pride and ambition to stop him from true greatness. It’s like the verse says, “The greatest among you shall be a servant.”
What’s your favorite food?
Give me the thickest, rarest steak you can find.
What’s your favorite holiday?
Thanksgiving.