IN THE PROFESSION
( Fulton County Superior Court ) and the late Senior Judge Lindsay Tise ( Northern Judicial Circuit Superior Court ).
I was a young Fulton County public defender when I was assigned as a trial attorney to Judge Langham ’ s courtroom – with a consistently heavy and active trial calendar . Judge Langham was wise , exacting but fair in his rulings , always composed , and above all , kind – not only to me but also to my clients and to all who appeared before him .
Judge Tise was a colleague , a friend and a mentor to me during my entire career beginning in Northeast Georgia where I accepted my first job as a public defender . Judge Tise served as District Attorney in the five-county Northeastern Judicial Circuit , then as Superior Court Judge , and finally as Senior Superior Court Judge upon his retirement . This often brought him to Fulton Superior Court where he mentored judges and attorneys alike . He had a great deal of knowledge and experience that he generously shared , a wonderful sense of humor , and an unflappable demeanor ; he saw the good in everyone .
These wonderful examples set by Judge Langham and Judge Tise made a life-long impression on me that I hope to emulate each time I preside .
Judge Witherspoon : Judge Thelma
Wyatt Cummings Moore ( Fulton County Superior Court ) sat on the bench for over 30 years . I so admired Judge Moore and would like to emulate her . She believed that every litigant , defendant , plaintiff or whoever was in her court , whether represented or not deserved to have some understanding of the legal process . In her role , she brought fairness and respect to the courtroom . I never saw her lose her temper or disrespect anyone coming before her . She is a living icon , not only on the bench but in the community . If she thought you deserved a second chance , she gave it to you , no matter how bad the situation . As a young lawyer back in the day , she was very kind to me and allowed me to vent when the situation called for it . She did not even know me , but she made time for me when I ventured into her chambers and asked for her listening ear .
When someone addresses you as Judge , how long does it take you to realize they are referring to you ?
Judge Locke : Honestly , it all still feels very unreal . I mean , I am wearing a judicial robe and sweatpants while observing court over Zoom , with my kids ’ two guinea pigs are watching me from across the living room .
When I was a public defender , I practiced for a time in the noncomplex division , and in private practice I appeared for small claims and warrant application cases , so it is a little surreal to be on the same bench . The Fulton County Courthouse is where I found my footing as a young lawyer . When I am sitting in the courtroom and looking out at the gallery where I used to sit and remember Judge Woodson or Judge Hicks or Judge Leftridge sitting where I am - that will be my “ now-I ’ m-a-judge ” moment .
Judge Mau : This is funny because it often does take a moment to realize it is me someone is talking to , usually because the person has mispronounced my last name . In all honesty , it is an incredible honor every time I hear “ Judge Mau ” ( rhymes with “ now ”), and I hope that this does not wear off any time soon .
Judge Witherspoon : If I could emulate Judge Moore in her respect and treatment of those who came before her , then I shall have accomplished much . So , when I am addressed as “ Your Honor or Judge ,” I think of her and know that this is right for me , and I feel honored to be referred to as that - and yes , I realize they are addressing me .
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